A presentation on the Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta delivered by Dr. Eng. Ir. Laretna Trisnantari Adhisakti, M.Arch., or Bu Sita, before researchers of the Taiwan Heritage Society on 29 October 2025 introduced a fresh perspective to the global discourse on heritage city management. Representing the UGM–UNESCO Chair, she not only explained Yogyakarta’s achievement as a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also demonstrated how traditional spatial philosophy can inspire modern approaches to sustainability.
In her presentation, the philosophy of Hamemayu Hayuning Bawono, which underpins the formation of the Cosmological Axis, was described as an environmental management framework that integrates disaster mitigation with ecosystem balance. This concept aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, underscoring that cultural heritage is not merely a historical legacy but a living guide relevant to contemporary urban planning.
One of the most eye-opening points for participants was the application of the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach in managing buffer zones. Bu Sita emphasized that heritage conservation should not suppress the economic vitality of historic neighborhoods such as Wijilan and Kauman. Through the concept of the “Indonesian Heritage Commercial District,” adapted from the Main Street approach, cultural preservation can in fact stimulate inclusive economic growth by empowering local craft communities and small businesses. This approach supports SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth, ensuring that local residents benefit directly from their city’s world heritage status.
The presentation also highlighted the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, such as Batik and performing arts, as integral components of preserving the city’s physical fabric. Bu Sita noted that Yogyakarta’s status as the “World Batik City” demonstrates how local wisdom and traditional production methods continue to thrive amid global industrialization. This provided the Taiwanese audience with new insight into Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), where historical value and environmental sustainability enhance the cultural significance of a product.
The forum further strengthened global academic networks through the introduction of the International Jogja Field School, conducted from 2024 to 2025. Bu Sita invited researchers and students from various countries to engage directly in field-based conservation activities in Yogyakarta, creating a dynamic and practical learning environment. This initiative represents a concrete implementation of SDG 4 on Quality Education and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals, demonstrating that international collaboration is essential for safeguarding human cultural heritage.
Bu Sita’s presence at the forum reaffirmed that Yogyakarta is not only a tourism destination but also a living laboratory for knowledge and humanity. Researchers from the Taiwan Heritage Society were encouraged to recognize the Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta as evidence that spiritual and philosophical values from the past remain highly relevant for shaping future urban policies. The positive response from forum participants is expected to encourage further collaborative research that positions local wisdom as a key solution to global challenges such as climate change and urbanization.
Reported by Rindi Dwi Cahyati
