Gunung Mas, Central Kalimantan – Jakarta International University (JIU) strengthened its commitment to advancing education and community development in Central Kalimantan through a series of strategic engagements held on August 16–18, 2025. The purpose of this visit was to build deeper partnerships with the government of Gunung Mas and the Gereja Kalimantan Evangelis (GKE).
The delegation, represented by Dr. Yonggyu Lee (Founding Director of Foundation Duranno Indonesia) and Dr. Agus Hartadi, S.E., M.A. (Rector of JIU), was warmly welcomed in Palangka Raya by GKE, a major Protestant denomination in Kalimantan that has been working closely with FDI and JIU over the past four years. During the visit, the delegation also met with the Regent of Gunung Mas, Mr. Jaya Samaya Monong, S.E., M.Si., and received strong support from both him and the Chairperson of GKE (Ketua Umum Majelis Sinode Gereja Kalimantan Evangelis), Pdt. Simpon F. Lion, M.Th.
On August 17, following Sunday Worship at GKE Sion, an MoU was signed between JIU, the Government of Gunung Mas, and GKE. This milestone agreement highlighted joint efforts in education, leadership development, and community service for the younger generation in Central Kalimantan, while also opening pathways for future academic opportunities.
In addition, the delegation participated in the Declaration of a Child-Friendly Church (Deklarasi Gereja Ramah Anak), a significant initiative spearheaded by GKE. The program was filled with enthusiasm from children and youth, reflecting a strong community spirit and a collective dedication to child protection and empowerment.
On August 18, the delegation visited the Christian University of Palangka Raya (UKPR), where they engaged in dialogue with university leadership and toured campus facilities. The exchange provided an opportunity to share experiences, discuss challenges, and explore possibilities for collaboration in areas such as language training, scholarships, and faculty development.
Through these engagements, JIU reaffirmed their mission to foster long-term collaboration with local government and religious organization. By expanding access to higher education and strengthening character formation, this partnership seeks to equip the young generation in Central Kalimantan with the skills and values needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
JIU expressed its gratitude to the Regent of Gunung Mas Mr. Jaya Samaya Monong, S.E., M.Si., for his openness in building collaboration and to GKE for the warm hospitality and thoughtful facilitation throughout the visit. The shared commitment demonstrated during the visit laid a strong foundation for meaningful synergy in education and service for years to come.
