International Collaboration Reviews the Philosophy and Production Process of Gamelan as a Potential Therapeutic Instrument
ToYOGYAKARTA – In order to expand the scope of interdisciplinary research between culture and health sciences, the Notokusumo College of Health Sciences (STIKES) Yogyakarta welcomed an honorary visit from a delegation of Health Science University (HSU), Japan, on Tuesday, November 12, 2025.
The delegation was led by Prof. Satoshi Shimo, Head of the Department of Occupational Therapy at HSU, and accompanied by Mr. Hisashi Sakai, President Director of ASTAGE Co., Ltd. This visit was part of the follow-up of a collaborative research plan with STIKES Notokusumo Yogyakarta lecturers regarding the potential of Javanese Gamelan.
The agenda began with a comprehensive introduction session on Javanese Gamelan at the STIKES Notokusumo Yogyakarta campus. The presentation was delivered by Mr. Murhadi, an academic and observer of Gamelan, along with an illustrative performance from the STIKES Notokusumo student karawitan group. This explanation emphasizes the musical structure, social function, and profound philosophy contained in each Gamelan instrument, which is very relevant to be studied in the perspective of occupational therapy.
To get a more holistic understanding, the delegation then visited the Gamelan craftsman center, CV Karya Mandiri Wibowo. This visit aims to observe the traditional musical instrument manufacturing process firsthand. The artisans stated that the quality of their Gamelan products has been internationally recognized, with significant production volumes for foreign markets, particularly in Malaysia. This information confirms the economic value and quality of local cultural products in the eyes of the world.
The agenda continued with a visit to the Gamelan & Karawitan Art Studio Omah Cangkem. This visit aims to witness various expressions of Javanese art and culture displayed in the authentic context of the studio. At the Omah Cangkem Studio, the delegates received an in-depth explanation of the philosophical values inherent in the Gamelan instrument. It is emphasized that instruments such as the Gong Ageng are considered the “soul” of Gamelan because of the resonance of the sound that is full of meaning and depth. Prof. Satoshi Shimo expressed a high appreciation for this philosophical narrative, which provides a new dimension in seeing Gamelan as a medium of intervention and expression.
In closing, Prof. Shimo and Mr. Hisashi Sakai had the opportunity to participate directly in a practice session playing Gamelan. This interaction was carried out with the young members of the Omah Cangkem Sanggar, where they tried to play the Saron instrument. The moment, which was marked by enthusiastic guidance from the studio children, showed the ease of access and inclusive nature of Gamelan as a means of social interaction. The two delegates from Japan showed great enthusiasm in trying out the instrument, underscoring the potential of Gamelan as a means of cross-cultural communication.
This visit is expected to be a solid foundation for ongoing research cooperation between STIKES Notokusumo and Health Science University in exploring the benefits of Javanese Gamelan for health and well-being.
