On December 23, 2023, the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) officially inaugurated three new professors. Two of these professors are from the Government Studies Program: Prof. Dr. Tri Sulistyaningsih, M.Si, and Prof. Dr. Asep Nurjaman, M.Si.
During their inaugural speeches, each professor presented their respective research focuses. Prof. Tri specializes in new urban governance, exploring sustainable urban planning and management. Meanwhile, Prof. Asep’s research delves into the historical trajectory of Islamic parties within the dynamics of Indonesia's party system post-Soeharto.
In her research, Prof. Tri emphasized that smart governance relies heavily on the implementation of good governance principles, such as transparency, accountability, collaboration, participation, and e-governance. Additionally, she noted that a smart city is not only about providing high-quality services but also about creating efficient and effective systems.
“A smart city can also contribute to balanced regional development. Institutions with better governance are those with transparent procedures,” Prof. Tri highlighted.
Prof. Asep, on the other hand, explored the complex relationship between the declining performance of Islamic parties and the dynamics of Indonesia’s party system during the reform era. His research provides evidence that the decline of Islamic parties has contributed to shifts within the party system itself.
“The transformative nature of Indonesia’s multiparty electoral system has significantly impacted religious-based parties, which once wielded substantial influence in the country’s political arena,” Prof. Asep explained.
In closing their speeches, both Prof. Tri and Prof. Asep expressed their gratitude to everyone who had supported them in achieving their new titles. They hoped that their professorships would drive innovation and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
