Welcoming the Thai Ambassador, UIN Jakarta Explores Research Collaboration and Institutional Strengthening
Main Conference Room, UIN Online News – UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta received an official courtesy visit from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Thailand to strengthen academic collaboration and foster international institutional development. The meeting took place in the Main Conference Room, Rectorate Building, on Thursday (September 17, 2026).
The meeting was attended by the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Mr. Prapan Disyatat, accompanied by Minister & Deputy Chief of Mission, H.E. Mrs. Hathaichanok Riddhagni Frumau. The delegation was formally received by Vice Rector for Cooperation and Institutional Affairs, Din Wahid, M.A., Ph.D.; Director of the Graduate School, Prof. Dr. Zulkifli, M.A.; Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Dr. Ade Abdul Hak, M.Hum., CIQnR.; alongside representatives from the International Cooperation Service Center (PLKI), Nurbaini Futuhat Wulansari, S.Si., and PLKI staff. Ten Thai students currently pursuing their studies at UIN Jakarta (eight male and two female students) were also in attendance.
Opening the session, Vice Rector Din Wahid, M.A., Ph.D., conveyed warm greetings and apologies on behalf of UIN Jakarta Rector, Prof. Asep Saepudin Jahar, M.A., Ph.D., who was unable to attend. He then presented an overview of UIN Jakarta as the largest State Islamic Higher Education Institution (PTKIN) in Indonesia, currently celebrating its 69th anniversary with 42,088 students, approximately 1,300 faculty members, 900 administrative staff, and 12 faculties.
“First of all, I would like to welcome you to our university. This is the largest state Islamic university in Indonesia. We are currently celebrating our 69th anniversary,” he remarked.
He explained that since transforming into a comprehensive university in 2002, UIN Jakarta has consistently promoted the integration of Islamic studies with modern science, while actively advocating for moderate Islamic values. Furthermore, Din Wahid highlighted potential concrete collaborations in halal science and halal tourism.
“Although Indonesia is home to the world's largest Muslim population, when it comes to Halal Centers and Halal Science, we must acknowledge that universities in Thailand are remarkably advanced. Therefore, we look forward to collaborating with you,” he explained.
In response, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Mr. Prapan Disyatat, praised UIN Jakarta’s long-standing track record and global achievements, particularly within the QS World University Rankings.
“I am aware that UIN is the largest State Islamic University for Islamic studies, and learning today that it has reached its 69th anniversary underscores its long-standing legacy. I am delighted to have the opportunity to visit and meet the Thai students studying here with us,” he stated.
He welcomed the proposal for joint halal science research and offered to facilitate connections between UIN Jakarta and leading research entities in Thailand, such as the Halal Science Center at Chulalongkorn University, particularly in light of Indonesia's evolving halal certification regulations.
“We would be pleased to assist in connecting UIN with them for joint studies or strategic collaborations,” he added.
Addressing the Thai students in attendance, Ambassador Prapan Disyatat encouraged them to make the most of their four-year academic journey at UIN Jakarta to gain knowledge and build enduring cross-cultural friendships.
“You play a crucial role. You are pursuing your education here in Indonesia, and when you return to Thailand, you will serve as a bridge between our two nations,” he advised.
Meanwhile, Director of the Graduate School (SPS) at UIN Jakarta, Prof. Dr. Zulkifli, M.A., highlighted the excellence of SPS UIN Jakarta. Established in 1982, the graduate school currently educates around 600 master's and doctoral candidates. He highlighted interdisciplinary concentrations such as Religion and Medical Science, Religion and Ecology, and Religion and Economics, while promoting the Rector's Scholarship available for Thai students.
“We aim to shift the epicenter of Islamic studies from the Middle East to Southeast Asia, specifically Indonesia, which holds the world's largest Muslim population,” he concluded.
This visit is expected to further broaden UIN Jakarta’s global network across the ASEAN region, facilitate student and faculty mobility, and yield actionable joint research and international education programs.