Photo Story: When Indonesian Lawmakers Enjoy the Jusuf Kalla Library at UIII

Contributor: Supriyono | Editor: Dadi Darmadi | Photo: Achmad Jatnika

The Committee for Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation (BKSAP) of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) visited the Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia (UIII) on May 19, 2025, to explore collaboration in strengthening Indonesia’s diplomatic engagement. One highlight of the visit was a tour of the now-viral Jusuf Kalla Library—an architectural and intellectual gem on the UIII campus.

The first picture above depicts the Founding Rector of UIII Prof. Dr. Komaruddin Hidayat, accompanying BKSAP Chairman Dr. Mardani Ali Sera, while UIII current Rector Prof. Dr. Jamhari and Prof. Amsal Bakhtiar, Vice-Rector for Planning, Finance, and Business Development, were reading books behind them. They were comfortably seated on colorful bean bags and tiered wooden steps, reflecting the relaxed atmosphere of the library.

The second picture captures a professional and casual interaction taking place in the open, well-lit lobby, before the officials entered the library. The environment is clean and modern, with polished tile flooring, potted plants, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the university’s commitment to hospitality and collaboration.

The third picture shows a warm, candid moment of University Secretary Dr. Chaider S. Bamualim engaged in a small conversation with BKSAP member Ravindra Airlangga, M.S., while Mohamad Sohibul Iman, Ph.D. another BKSAP member deeply focused on his reading, leaning back comfortably against a yellow cushion.

The fourth photo documents an informative moment during the library tour. Rector Prof. Dr. Jamhari leads BKSAP officials—Dr. Mardani Ali Sera, Ravindra Airlangga, M.S., and Bramantyo Suwondo, M.IR.—through the library’s collection, pausing to highlight a notable book and share insights into its significance.

The final image showcases a commemorative group photo (using UIII hand sign) taken in front of the Special Collection of Prof. M. C. Ricklefs. This dedicated corner houses 3,000 books generously donated by the family of the late Australian historian, underscoring UIII’s global academic connections and commitment to preserving scholarly legacies.