Proceeding of International Conference on Business, Economics, Social Sciences, and Humanities
The Impact of Competence Combine with Work Environment to Accelerate Employee Performance at Company Engaged in Warehousing Sector in Bandung
The purpose of this study aims to determine the competence, work environment and performance of employees at PT. Haistar Bandung warehouse. In addition, to determine the effect of competence, work environment on employee performance partially or simultaneously. The method used is descriptive and verification methods. Sampling was carried out through 72 random employees of PT. Haistar Bandung warehouse. Data were collected through questionnaire interviews and a literature study. Statistical tests used are classical assumptions, multiple linear regression analysis, correlation coefficient analysis, coefficient of determination, and hypothesis testing using (partial) t-test and f (simultaneous) test. The results showed that the influence of competence, and environment there is a significant influence on employee performance at PT. Haistar warehouse Bandung. While the results of the study explain that the partial application of competence to employee performance shows results that have a positive and significant effect on PT. Haistar Bandung Warehouse. The work environment has a significant effect on employee performance at PT. Haistar Bandung Warehouse and competence, work environment, and employee performance simultaneously have a significant effect on PT. Haistar Bandung warehouse.
Commercial Persuasion Design for Singgasana Tattoo Studio Bandung
Singgasana, a tattoo studio situated in Bandung, distinguishes itself through a commitment to professionalism, stringent hygiene standards, and the consistent delivery of high-quality results, particularly utilizing durable black and red ink. Despite experiencing growth, the studio encounters limitations stemming from its largely spontaneous and unsystematic promotional efforts. These efforts have demonstrably hindered the effective communication of its unique brand propositions and impeded the cultivation of robust audience trust. Accordingly, this study endeavours to formulate a structured promotional strategy with the objective of enhancing Singgasana's competitive positioning within the market. The methodological framework employed in this research encompassed observations, interviews, and questionnaires, complemented by a comprehensive 7P analysis and a SWOT assessment. Drawing upon these empirical findings, a visual communication strategy was subsequently devised, leveraging the AISAS (Attention, Interest, Search, Action, Share) model. This strategy specifically emphasizes the professionalism of the studio's artists and the proven durability characteristic of its selected ink pigments. The findings indicate that the implementation of an audience-oriented, structured promotional strategy can effectively contribute to the enhancement of brand image and foster greater competitiveness within the Bandung tattoo industry. In conclusion, this research establishes that a structured promotional strategy, when informed by the AISAS model, proves instrumental in constructing a professional brand image and bolstering the studio's competitive standing in the local market. This research offers significant implications for the studio by providing a framework to systematically communicate its unique selling propositions, thereby strengthening audience trust. Furthermore, it furnishes an organized promotional structure designed to support the long-term business sustainability of Singgasana Tattoo Studio.
Beyond Words: Rethinking the Cultural Meaning of Silence in Japanese Communication
Silence holds a distinctive place in Japanese communication, and it has drawn significant interest from researchers. That said, existing understanding remains fragmented across different fields-including high-context communication theory, pragmatics, and studies of interpersonal relationships. This separation has kept us from fully seeing silence as a meaningful, socially accepted way of interacting. The purpose of this study is to synthesize the conceptualization of the cultural meaning of silence in key studies on Japanese communication. Using an affirmative qualitative literature review, the analysis addressed core research on high-context communication, silence as a communicative behavior, and relational theory (amae and wakimae). Thematic analysis of the study has uncovered three interrelated cultural aspects of silence: relational practice, cultural negotiation, and shared meaning. This reveals that silence is not just the absence of words, but a meaningful cultural way to maintain bonds, harmony, and shared understanding. The present study integrates existing theories into a coherent cultural interpretation of silence in Japanese communication rather than dealing with them separately. The results of this study contribute to Japanese communication research by providing a more holistic conceptual understanding of silence and a theoretical framework for further studies of intercultural communication and culturally embedded communicative practices.
The Effect of Instagram Based Learning on Motivation and Japanese Language Skill Development
This study aims to analyze the impact of learning through the Instagram platform on the motivation of Japanese language course participants and to analyze the relationship between motivation and the improvement of Japanese language skills. This study uses a quantitative approach with a correlational research design. To analyze intrinsic and extrinsic motivation as well as participants' learning outcome records, a Likert scale questionnaire was used. Japanese language course participants who used the Instagram platform were selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. The research results show that participants' motivation for intrinsic motivation tends to be more dominant than extrinsic motivation, which indicates that participants' motivation is at a moderate to high level. Analysis using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient shows a significant positive relationship between motivation and improvement in Japanese language skills. Interesting Instagram features such as visual content display and communicative interaction play a very important role in increasing interest in learning as well as learners' motivation during the learning process. These results show that Instagram can be effectively utilized as a language learning medium to enhance motivation and support interactive learning. The results of this study indicate that participant motivation can provide significant learning improvement. The selection of interesting content features also becomes one of the participants' motivations to further enhance their language skills. This study provides empirical insights into the use of social media in language learning and serves as a useful reference for developing more interactive and engaging digital learning strategies.
Manifestation of a Vengeful Spirit as a Representation of Gender Inequality in Japan: An Analysis of the Film Teke-Teke (2009)
This study aims to analyses how the character of Reiko Kashima in Koji Shiraishi’s film Teke-Teke (2009) represents gender inequality in Japanese society. A qualitative descriptive method employing a cultural studies approach was used to examine the film as a cultural text. The findings indicate that the figure of the vengeful spirit (onryō) is constructed as an embodiment of women’s anger over traumatic experiences involving indifference and violence. The transformation of the victim into a terrifying entity symbolizes the inability of the social system to provide a sense of security and justice for women. The research of findings indicate that the acts of violence committed by the supernatural entity in the film are both a manifestation of trauma and a form of symbolic resistance against injustice, indirectly criticizing the suppression of women’s rights within the structure of Japanese society. This study concludes that horror representations serve as a medium for social critique of the patriarchal structures that place women in a subordinate position. Practically, this study contributes to the enriching popular culture studies and deepening the analytical understanding of gender representations in contemporary Japanese horror films.
Growing From Trauma: A Post-Traumatic Growth Analysis of Makoto Shinkai's Suzume No Tojimari
This study aims to examine the psychological transformation of the protagonist in the animated film Suzume no Tojimari (2022) directed by Makoto Shinkai through the application of the Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) framework. This study explores how the film's narrative responds to the collective trauma caused by the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method with a clinical psychology approach. Data were collected through structured cinematic observation and analyzed by systematically aligning visual and textual evidence with the five dimensions of PTG proposed by Tedeschi and Calhoun, without involving human participants. The findings indicate that the protagonist's direct confrontation with her repressed childhood memories symbolized by the blackened diary clearly represents the process of post-traumatic recovery. Her physical and emotional journey demonstrates the strengthening of personal capacities, the restoration of interpersonal relationships through acts of self-sacrifice, the emergence of new life possibilities, an increased appreciation of beauty, and ultimately the achievement of profound existential acceptance. In conclusion, the film successfully reinterprets the impact of the disaster by transforming the narrative from a state of psychological stagnation to a dynamic process of active empowerment. Overall, this study makes a significant contribution to the discourse on disaster psychology by demonstrating that contemporary animation serves as a constructive cultural blueprint for visualizing psychological healing and cultivating mental resilience in processing collective grief.
Mitigating Criticism through Digital Irony: A Computer-Mediated Discourse Analysis of the Spy X Family Manga Comment Section on Shonen Jump+
The move from print to digital manga has made new interactive spaces, like comment sections. In these anonymous spaces, criticizing the plot often results in Face-Threatening Acts (FTA). This research investigates the utilization of irony by Japanese manga readers to counteract criticism. We integrate Computer-Mediated Discourse Analysis (CMDA) with Brown and Levinson’s Politeness Theory to analyze orthographic manipulation and the performativity of yakuwarigo, a stylized role-playing language employed to denote character types in fiction. Our data was taken from the 100 best comments from Chapters 130 of Spy x Family on Shonen Jump+. The results show that readers don't like to be directly criticized. Instead, they show their displeasure by changing the spelling and using fake yakuwarigo. This serves two purposes: it is off-record politeness to make comments about creators less harsh and positive politeness to strengthen the fandom's solidarity. Consequently, our research indicates that yakuwarigo has transitioned from a fictional character trait to a "pragmatic mask" for social negotiation in reality. Additionally, our research elucidates the mechanisms by which online communities alleviate verbal aggression and enhance cultural cohesion, thereby cultivating a peaceful and inclusive digital ecosystem (SDG 16).
Marketing Communication Strategy of Coffee Shop “1994 Coffee and Creative Space Bandung” in Increasing Customer Loyalty
Purpose of this research is to examine the marketing communication strategy of 1994 Coffee and Creative Space Bandung in developing customer loyalty in a competitive environment. Descriptive qualitative method was used using interview, observation, and documentation methods involving purposive respondents who include the management, baristas, and customers. Findings show that the coffee shop gives importance to the following aspects of Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC): public relations, events and experiences, personal selling, and word of mouth marketing. Discussion reveals that the above-mentioned strategies foster emotional attachment through brand imaging, engaging communities in creative activities, and establishing personal relationships between baristas and customers. It was concluded that in today's marketing world, the creation of significant emotional bonds and experiences is the key to success and not mere conventional business promotion practices. This study contributes to the body of knowledge of communication science by adding to the theory of marketing communication.
Sacred Networks Vis A Vis Sovereign Interests: Faith-Based Diplomacy and the Western Sahara Question in Indonesia-Morocco Relations
The paper explores the foundations and limitations of faith-based diplomacy in Indonesia-Morocco relations, particularly through the Western Sahara dispute. Drawing on a qualitative case study, it analyses interviews, official documents, and secondary sources to assess how religious cooperation has shaped bilateral engagement. The analysis indicates that faith-based diplomacy contributed to strengthening symbolic affinity, trust, and transnational working religious networks between both countries. Still, these ties have not changed Indonesia’s cautious and neutral position over Morocco’s territorial claim. It is concluded that although religion may help facilitate people-to-people relations and normative legitimacy, ultimately sovereign interests and domestic political considerations trump all in sensitive geopolitical matters. This article highlights that faith-based diplomacy has symbolic and social power in the religious, development and humanitarian discourses of contemporary international relations but limited potential to shape state behaviour over territorial disputes; it contributes to scholarship on religion in international relations.
Representations of the Commodification of the Carbon Market through Cartoon Art Using a Visual Metaphor Approach
The global climate crisis phenomenon has driven the transformation of the ecological function of forests into economic commodities through a carbon exchange mechanism that presents a paradoxical condition between nature conservation efforts and the demands of polluting industrial growth within the framework of sustainable development.. This study aims to analyze the representation of carbon trading as commodification through a visual metaphorical approach in caricature works. Methodologically, this study is an artistic research project that adopts the Art Consortium’s creation model through five systematic stages: preparation, elaboration, synthesis, concept realization, and evaluation. This creative process produces works that represent the commodification of the carbon market through visual metaphors. The analysis reveals that the use of visual metaphors simplifies the complex narrative of the green economy into provocative visual messages. The discussion highlights how each visual element functions as a critical tool against the commodification of nature, which is trapped within the interests of global capitalism. In conclusion, this artistic research affirms that caricature is not merely an aesthetic illustration but a medium that demands profound reflection on socio-environmental phenomena.
Development of The “Hoterun-Go!” Mobile App for Learning Japanese Vocabulary in The Hospitality Industry
Mastering vocabulary is one of the essential aspects of language learning, particularly for students preparing to enter the job market, especially in the hospitality industry. This study aims to develop a mobile learning app titled “Hoterun-go!” to help students in the Japanese language and litetature program at the university of informatics Indonesia learn Japanese vocabulary related to the hospitality industry in a more interactive and contextual way. This research employs the research and development (R&D) method, focusing on the design and development process of the app using the Thunkable platform. The app offers vocabulary organized by hotel department, such as front desk, housekeeping, and food and beverage. Each vocabulary word is accompanied by a definition, example sentences, and an image. It also features a quiz function via Google Forms to practice and assess knowledge. The app contains approximately 50 vocabulary words and is well-designed, considering that it is accessible via a mobile phone. This allows students to learn at their own pace. The use of images and example sentences helps students understand the vocabulary and apply it to real-life situations. The “Hoterun-go!” app is an excellent alternative to the traditional method of memorizing vocabulary. This app would undoubtedly help students acquire practical mastery of vocabulary and communication in the hospitality industry.
From Anime to Digital Games: Japanese Cultural Diplomacy in the Perspective of International Relations
Popular culture has become an increasingly visible part of state diplomacy, although its role in International Relations is still not examined as systematically as military or economic power. This article discusses how Japan employs anime and digital games as instruments of cultural diplomacy and soft power. Using a qualitative approach, the analysis draws on policy documents, media reports, and selected cases interpreted through soft power theory and constructivism. The discussion shows that the international circulation of Japanese popular culture initially developed through fan communities and commercial networks before being incorporated into state-led programs such as the Cool Japan Initiative. Anime and games contribute to nation branding, support the reconstruction of Japan’s post-war identity, and generate substantial economic value. Their influence, however, is not unlimited. Historical tensions with China and Korea, competition from other Asian cultural industries, and dependence on global digital platforms continue to shape their diplomatic reach. Digital games are especially important because players do not merely watch a representation of Japan; they interact with narratives, characters, and values over time. The article therefore argues that cultural industries should be understood as both economic assets and practical instruments of contemporary diplomacy.
A Stakeholder-Based Curriculum Approach to Japanese Language Education in Indonesia: Integrating Language and Intercultural Competence for Internship Program in Japan
This study aims to identify the competencies required by Japanese companies to accept interns and provide implications for the development of a stakeholder-based curriculum for Japanese language study programs in Indonesia. This study used a mixed methods approach through a survey of 20 Japanese companies and interviews with industry representatives. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The results showed that cross-cultural understanding was the most needed competency (4.10). In terms of soft skills, moral integrity (4.22), loyalty (4.16), and teamwork (4.10) were the main competencies. These findings suggest that the success of an internship program is determined not only by language skills but also by the ability to adapt to Japanese work culture. This research emphasizes the importance of developing a stakeholder-based curriculum that integrates language, cross-cultural, and professional skills competencies to enhance students' work readiness in an international environment.
Historical Representation of Kamakura Era Samurai in Ghost of Tsushima
Through interactive venues like video games, the evolution of digital media has changed the perspective of history and culture. Ghost of Tsushima, a game set during the Mongol invasion of Japan in the 13th century, is a prime example of this. This study looks at how the game has shown the ideals and customs of samurai throughout time. Qualitative technique is used by the study to examine how stories, graphics, and symbols are utilized to demonstrate and explain ideas. Findings suggest the game emphasizes major ideals like honor, allegiance, and the difficult moral quandaries faced by samurai by blending real events with fictitious narrative to present Japanese history. Furthermore, the game enhances the player's storytelling experience by fusing philosophical ideas with natural imagery to use Japanese literary aesthetics. Though some historical features have been simplified, the game is still a well-liked method of presenting Japanese culture to people throughout the world. Thus, video games can be understood as a new medium for historical and literary representation in the digital era.
Shadow Archetype Dominance in Character Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms (Literary Psychology)
This study aims to analyze the dominance of the Shadow archetype in the main character in the anime Maquia: When the Promised Flower Blooms. Through a descriptive qualitative method and a literary psychology approach, this study dissects the inner conflict of Maquia as an immortal entity raising a mortal child using Carl Gustav Jung's archetype psychoanalysis theory. The results of the analysis show that Maquia's biological destiny triggers the Shadow archetype, which manifests as an absolute fear of loneliness. In order to perfect the mask of her role as a strong protective mother, she buries this fear to an extreme degree. This chronic repression triggers a series of psychological tragedies that culminate in the collapse of her mental resilience as her adopted child grows up and leaves her. In conclusion, hiding the Shadow archetype is not a manifestation of maturity, but merely a temporary shield that gradually weakens mental stability.
Desire in Hakuji’s Identity as Akaza in Kimetsu No Yaiba: Infinity Castle
The aim of this study is to analyze the construction of Hakuji’s identity as Akaza in the anime Kimetsu no Yaiba: Infinity Castle. Data were collected through the observation of dialogues, monologues, and scenes illustrating Hakuji’s transformation into Akaza. The analysis was conducted by interpreting the data in light of Jacques Lacan’s psychoanalytic concepts, namely the mirror stage, the symbolic order, and the real. The research findings show that the transformation of Hakuji’s identity into Akaza is influenced by a traumatic experience the loss of a loved one as well as by a relationship with another party playing the role of the Other. This relationship provides Hakuji with recognition and new meaning, thereby forming a new identity as Akaza. Thus, Akaza’s identity can be understood as a construction that takes shape through the dynamics of the relationship between the subject and the Other within the symbolic structure.
Translating West Borneo Malay Sartorial Traditions into Instagram Visual Content
This design aims to produce visual information in the form of social media content that combines informative text and illustrations to explain Malay attire, including types of clothing, fabric patterns, accessories, and their philosophical significance. The approach is design-based, utilising visualisation as a means of communication. This project is inspired by a phenomenon in West Kalimantan concerning the understanding and awareness of appropriate Malay dress codes. Many people follow modern fashion trends without understanding the cultural values embedded in traditional clothing. Social media was chosen as the primary platform due to its high usage rate and its ability to disseminate information widely, quickly, and easily. The result is communicative and informative visual content that educates the audience on Malay dress etiquette, values of modesty, and related cultural elements. It is hoped that this medium will serve as a visual educational resource for the public, particularly the younger generation, to better understand and help preserve the Malay dress culture in West Kalimantan today.
A Gestalt Analysis of the Coraline 15th Anniversary Re-Release Movie Poster
The stop-motion film Coraline (2009) by Henry Selick is one of the best stop-motion works with a unique aesthetic theme, combining the colorful imagination of a child with a dark world. In 2024, on the 15th anniversary of Coraline movie, Laika Studio re-released the film with a new poster design as part of its digital promotion strategy, as movie posters can convey information, film identity, and visual impressions that shape perceptions. This study aims to analyze how the visual elements of a new poster can attract audiences from across generations. This research is qualitative-descriptive, collecting data through literature study and visual observation using Gestalt theory. Research results show that the new Coraline movie poster, which features a more minimalist and tactile visual design without losing the film’s characteristic style, is quite effective at attracting a new modern generation of audiences who are consuming large amounts of visual information.
A Comparative Study of Service Culture in Japan and Indonesia from a Cultural Perspective
Service culture is a very important factor in the service industry as it is closely associated with the quality of interaction between service providers and customers. The manner in which service is delivered may depend on the unique cultural characteristics of individual countries. The cultural characteristics may, in turn, affect the quality of service as perceived by customers. Japan is famous for its unique service culture, referred to as omotenashi. It is a kind of hospitality that is delivered sincerely, where service providers seek to serve customers wholeheartedly without any particular reward. service practice in Indonesia has developed in line with the social values and cultural norms of the community in society. The service interaction process is also affected by the friendly and courteous service attitude, as well as the social relationships between service providers and customers. Moreover, the service system in public life also affects service delivery in various service sectors.
Intra-Regional Labor Migration : The Socio-Economic Implications for Tajik and Kyrgyz Migrant Workers in Kazakhstan and Russia
This research paper discusses the migrant labor movements from Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to Russia and Kazakhstan by identifying the main causes, socio-economic effects, and policy aspects of this migration through a qualitative comparative analysis based on secondary sources. It determines that the main economic reason for continued migration from these border economies to the more developed ones is the regional economic disparity, especially differences in income levels, industrial capacity and labor market opportunities. Migration becomes both a household survival strategy and a major source of national income through remittances, which along with supporting poverty reduction and macroeconomic stability, also develop significant dependence and exposure to external shocks, especially those related to Russia. The analysis also reveals that the social welfare of the migrants is determined by the institutional settings with Kyrgyz workers getting the advantage of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) membership while Tajik migrants being subjected to more stringent rules and facing greater insecurity. Besides the material consequences, migration has also significant social impacts, both at the level of the individual through the separation of families and at the level of the community through changes, while the migrants in the host countries usually have to confront being exploited and working under precarious conditions with their rights being limited. The article further states that labor migration to and from Central Asia is a manifestation of a wider system of regional inequality and interdependence, and that for the realization of the full potential of migration, the less developed countries will be required to carry out economic diversification while at the same time, the region will have to cooperate more intensively and ensure better protection of the migrants.
Transparency, Accountability, and Public Participation as Pillars of Good Governance: Evidence from Public Administration in Indonesia
The objective of this study is to examine how the application of transparency, accountability, and participation takes place within the public administration system of Indonesia and determine the influence of all three concepts on good governance and public trust in the government institutions. Qualitative research method will be applied in this case, involving a literature review and policy analysis to examine regulatory frameworks and innovations in the area of public administration at both national and regional levels in Indonesia. The results show that information transparency, accountability of public sector, and participation of citizens play an important role in the improvement of the efficiency of the administrative process and democracy in the country. Nevertheless, there are some issues related to the resistance of bureaucracy, lack of digitalization in some parts of Indonesia and civic participation in other regions. It is important to develop institutional mechanisms, digital governance and participation platforms to improve the quality of governance.
Canva’s Artificial Intelligence Features and the Creativity of Visual Communication Design Students at the Islamic Centre Vocational School in Cirebon Regency
Advances in artificial intelligence over the past few years have brought about significant changes in various fields, including education. Artificial intelligence technology is not only used to improve learning efficiency but is also beginning to be utilized as a tool in the creative process, particularly in the fields of design and visual media. In the context of vocational education, the integration of artificial intelligence technology is becoming increasingly important as it is directly linked to the needs of the ever-evolving creative industry. One example is the use of AI-based design applications like Canva. Evidence from the field indicates that this application is widely used in the design creation process.. However, the relationship between the use of AI features on Canva and the development of students’ creativity still requires further empirical study. The focus of this study is to analyze the relationship between the use of AI features on Canva and the level of creativity among Visual Communication Design students at SMKS Islamic Centre in Cirebon Regency. The approach used is a mixed methods design combining quantitative and qualitative analysis. Quantitative data were obtained through a Likert-scale questionnaire to measure the intensity of Canva AI usage and student creativity based on creativity indicators in design learning. Quantitative analysis was performed using Pearson’s Product Moment correlation and showed a correlation coefficient of r = 0.079 with a significance level of p = 0.666 (p > 0.05). The results indicate that the relationship between the use of AI features on Canva and student creativity falls into the very weak category and is not statistically significant. These findings indicate that the use of artificial intelligence based features on Canva does not automatically enhance students creativity. Fostering creativity in students still requires an engaging learning process that provides space for students to explore ideas and develop concepts. The results of the study show that the use of artificial intelligence based features in the Canva app has not yet had a direct impact on enhancing students creativity. The role of teachers in designing learning methods that provide space and encourage the exploration of ideas also determines the improvement of students creativity and technical skills.
Gamification Based Visual Novel as a Learning Medium for JLPT N3 Kanji
The study of kanjis is among the most difficult tasks in learning Japanese due to complicated shapes of characters, various readings, and different meanings. The purpose of the research is to analyze the possibility of using visual novel technology based on gamification as a tool for learning kanjis at the JLPT N3 level. The research methodology is qualitative descriptive analysis based on the study of the literature concerning previously conducted studies in relation to visual novels, gamification, and game-based learning in Japanese. According to the findings described in the scientific literature and other academic sources, it is possible to conclude that the usage of learning media based on visual novels positively influences students' motivation, engagement, and understanding of the material thanks to the combination of storytelling, images, and interaction. Additionally, such gamification features as levels, scoring, and feedback help students memorize the material better and motivate them to continue practicing.
Learning Dental Vocabulary in Japanese Using Artificial Intelligence-Based Animated Media
Innovation in educational media, particularly in language acquisition, has been driven by the rapid growth of digital technology. The purpose of this project is to create an animated educational video about Japanese terminology related to oral and dental health using artificial intelligence. This study uses a Research and Development (R&D) approach based on the ADDIE model, limited to the analysis, design, and development stages. The result of this study is an animated educational film that combines text, audio, and visual components to aid the acquisition of specialized vocabulary. According to the development process, learning materials can become more engaging and interactive by incorporating multimedia and artificial intelligence components, making them more suitable for contemporary learners. In conclusion, this study successfully produced an educational media product with the potential to support the understanding of specialized Japanese vocabulary. The impact of this research lies in providing an innovative alternative learning medium that can be utilized to improve the quality of language learning, especially in a professional context.
Visual Semiotic Analysis of the Aesthetics of Pecel Lele Banners as a Medium for Basic Color Literacy
This study aims to analyze the significance of colors in Pecel Lele banners through a visual semiotics approach and evaluate their potential as a medium for basic color literacy in the context of design education and the general public. This study uses a descriptive-qualitative method with visual analysis sourced from literature studies. The results of the study show that the use of color on these banners not only serves as an eye-catcher, but also forms a collective visual identity that has been internalized in society. Theoretically, the extreme color contrast on these banners can be used as a real case study in learning basic color theory, particularly regarding complementary harmony and color psychology in public spaces. This study concludes that popular cultural artifacts such as Pecel Lele banners have high value as contextual learning media that are closely related to the social reality of the audience.
Post-Charismatic Leadership Transition in Central Asia: A Comparative Study of Kazakhstan (Tokayev) and Uzbekistan (Mirziyoyev)
This study analyzes the transition of post-charismatic leadership in Central Asia region, focusing on Kazakhstan under President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and Uzbekistan under President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. After periods of strong personal charisma exercised by the rulers of Nursultan Nazarbayev and Islam Karimov, both countries entered the stage of political adaptation when attempts were made to make the government system institutionalized without destabilizing the regime. By means of qualitative comparison and with the use of Max Weber’s notions of routinization of charismatic authority, the study analyzes the reformist trends and changes in the foreign policy priorities of both states. The outcomes of the study reveal that Uzbekistan is characterized by the presence of greater reformist trends and involvement in regional politics, whereas in Kazakhstan the processes of power consolidation can be observed in a more measured manner.
The Korean Security Paradox: North Korea’s Nuclear Threat vs the Complexity of Trilateral Cooperation Between China, South Korea, and Japan
This study analyzes the security paradox in East Asia posed by the North Korean nuclear threat and the complexity of trilateral cooperation between China, South Korea, and Japan. This study uses a qualitative explanatory method with a descriptive-analytic approach, drawing on library research and secondary sources. The results show that the evolution of North Korea's nuclear doctrine has increased regional strategic uncertainty, driven military modernization across neighboring states, and deepened geopolitical polarization. Trilateral cooperation faces eight major obstacles: historical burdens, economic dependence, and differences in strategic perceptions, great power rivalry, security paradoxes, mutual distrust, institutional instability, and the trauma of multilateral diplomacy. This study concludes that common threats do not automatically generate collective solidarity, but rather produce fragmented responses shaped by each country's national interest calculations. The implications of this study provide academic contributions to understanding the dynamics of East Asian regional security, particularly the interaction between military threats and geopolitical interests in shaping complex patterns of cooperation.