Prof. Nurhayati Rahman Contributes to Research on Interactive Multimedia Adaptation of I La Galigo

Makassar, July 18, 2026 – Prof. Dr. Nurhayati Rahman, M.S., Professor at the Department of Regional Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Hasanuddin University, served as a resource person for a research project titled "Adapting 'I La Galigo' into an Interactive Multimedia Format Based on PEST Analysis as an Innovative Educational Medium for Strengthening National Character." The discussion was held at the Department of Regional Literature, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Hasanuddin University, on Saturday (July 18).

The research is led by Dr. Agustina Kusuma Dewi, S.Sos., M.Ds., and conducted by the Jelajah Alih Wahana Research Group from Bandung. The project aims to develop an interactive multimedia platform that transforms the Bugis epic I La Galigo into an engaging educational medium while preserving its cultural authenticity and character-building values.

During the session, Prof. Nurhayati Rahman shared her scholarly insights on the cultural significance, narrative structure, and philosophical values embedded in I La Galigo. She emphasized that adapting the epic into a digital format should go beyond technological innovation by safeguarding the integrity of its cultural messages and indigenous wisdom.

"I La Galigo is not merely a literary masterpiece; it is a repository of moral values, leadership principles, and social ethics that remain relevant today. Any adaptation into digital media must preserve these essential values while making them accessible to contemporary audiences," Prof. Nurhayati stated.

The discussion also explored the application of the PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analytical framework in designing interactive multimedia as an educational innovation. The framework is expected to help ensure that the resulting media responds effectively to contemporary educational needs while remaining sensitive to cultural and societal contexts.

According to Dr. Agustina Kusuma Dewi, the insights provided by Prof. Nurhayati Rahman constitute an important academic foundation for ensuring that the multimedia adaptation accurately represents the cultural and philosophical dimensions of I La Galigo. The collaboration also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary partnerships in integrating cultural heritage, design, and digital technology.

The research initiative reflects a shared commitment to preserving Indonesia's intangible cultural heritage through innovative educational media. By combining humanities scholarship with multimedia technology, the project seeks to introduce I La Galigo to wider audiences—particularly younger generations—as a source of character education and cultural literacy in the digital era.