Universtas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Yogyakarta continues to collaborate with the Yogyakarta City Tourism Office in efforts to develop the Kotabaru area and conduct research to support local tourism. This was highlighted by Rev. Wahju Satria Wibowo, Ph.D., UKDW’s Vice Rector for Human Resource Development, Promotion, and Partnerships, during the Talkshow Tour De Kotabaru #4 held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the McDonald’s Sudirman courtyard in Yogyakarta.
Rev. Wahju Satria Wibowo, Ph.D., shared that in late 2024, UKDW’s Center for Disability Studies and Inclusive Design (PSDDI) partnered with the Indonesian National Design Center (PDIN) to assess the accessibility of pedestrian walkways and crossings along General Sudirman Street.
“Through an initiative called Step Out, we aimed to evaluate the accessibility of public spaces in Kotabaru for people with disabilities. PSDDI invited members of the disability community to navigate the streets and provide insights on existing infrastructure. This collaboration is expected to contribute to creating more inclusive, safe, and comfortable public spaces for all,” he explained.
During the discussion, Rev. Wahju Satria Wibowo, Ph.D., also emphasized Kotabaru’s significance as a cultural and historical landmark in Yogyakarta. “Kotabaru has a rich historical atmosphere and is officially recognized as a heritage area. For generations, the community has embraced religious tolerance—evident in how the HKBP Church and Syuhada Mosque have coexisted harmoniously on the same street. Beyond its historical value, Kotabaru also offers diverse cultural attractions and distinctive culinary experiences,” he noted.
Talkshow Tour De Kotabaru #4 is part of a series of initiatives by the Yogyakarta City Tourism Office aimed at developing Kotabaru as an alternative tourist destination. The goal is to ease congestion in Malioboro—Yogyakarta’s primary tourist hub—while showcasing the unique charm of Kotabaru.
The event featured guest speakers Yurnelis Piliang, S.I.P., M.P.A. (Head of Tourist Attraction Development, Yogyakarta City Tourism Office) and Eko Bimantoro (CEO of Grha Eklin Group). [hosea/trans.drr]