Jakarta, June 28, 2025 – The Communication Studies Department of Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) once again held its regular Table Manner and Grooming Practicum, as part of the Professional Image course. The event took place at Hotel Santika Premiere, Slipi, West Jakarta, and was attended by final-semester students as a means of direct learning on professional etiquette.

Unlike previous years, the 7th batch of the 2025 Table Manner practicum adopted a unique and culturally-rich theme: “Wonderful Nusantara: Refining Professional Image Through Javanese-Inspired Dining Etiquette.” This theme highlighted a fusion of modern professionalism and Javanese local wisdom within the setting of a formal dining experience. Through this concept, students were encouraged to realize that cultivating a professional image does not always have to align with Western cultural standards.

According to the event organizers, the program aims to instill awareness that cultural identity and professionalism are not necessarily bound to Western norms. In fact, core values of Javanese culture—such as unggah-ungguh (politeness), tepa slira (empathy), and andhap asor (humility)—possess ethical strength highly relevant in shaping a professional persona.

KRT Tamil Selvan, MA., a lecturer of the Professional Image course at UNDIRA, emphasized that self-image remains crucial, especially in today’s era of technological advancement and cultural dilution.

“In a time dominated by AI and technological progress, confidence is essential for survival. The ability to present oneself—how one behaves and positions oneself in the professional world—is a key element today. Life is not only about mastering technical skills, but also about developing social skills,” he explained.

“Style of appearance, clarity in articulation, and a confident walk—these are all powerful tools in making a strong first impression. A positive first impression lays the foundation for lasting trust,” he added.

The event was attended by 58 participants from both the Tanjung Duren and Cibubur campuses. Besides the table manner session, the practicum also featured complementary activities such as a Beauty Class and Grooming Workshop, as well as sessions on etiquette and decorum. Students also had the opportunity to apply their learning in a real-time formal dining setting, accompanied by live music performed by UNDIRA’s Music Student Organization.

This grooming process aims to encourage students to present themselves professionally. Not only does their appearance enhance self-image, but it also contributes to building self-confidence in social interactions.

Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Kornelia Johana Dacosta, M.I.Kom., emphasized that ethics are not merely theoretical but must be applied in real-life situations, especially in the context of business meetings or formal gatherings.

“Good etiquette supports effective communication. In this practicum, which serves as the output of the Professional Image course, students are taught not only how to behave at the dining table but also how to communicate properly. This is highly beneficial, especially for future business engagements,” she explained.

Ms. Eka Megawati, M.I.Kom., the course instructor for Professional Image, also shared her hopes that this activity would leave a lasting impression and serve as valuable preparation for students' future professional lives.

“Ethics are not something that can be imitated instantly—they must be instilled, practiced, and embedded into one’s character. I hope this activity is not just a learning moment, but a starting point in developing individuals who are confident, professional, and rooted in their cultural identity,” she concluded.