Mataram, 27 November 2025 – The Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Mataram (FEB Unram), once again demonstrated its capacity as an adaptive, professional, and nationally collaborative academic institution. This was reflected in the successful hosting of the 13th Congress of the Association of Indonesian Faculties of Economics and Business (AFEBI)—a prestigious forum that brought together leaders of economics and business faculties from across Indonesia.

This national-scale event took place over three days, from 25 to 27 November 2025, and was attended by 73 State Universities (PTN) that are members of AFEBI. The congress served not only as a key moment to formulate strategic directions for economics and business education in Indonesia, but also as a platform for exchanging ideas, strengthening academic networks, and fostering inter-university collaboration.

Delegates Reception: Warm Hospitality and the Spirit of Lombok

The series of activities began with the welcoming of delegates by the committee team at Lombok International Airport on Tuesday and Wednesday, 25–26 November 2025. A warm and friendly atmosphere was created by committee members consisting of lecturers, administrative staff, and FEB Unram students. They ensured that all delegates were picked up on time, guided to their hotels, and assisted with registration and logistical needs.

The arrival of representatives from 73 PTNs also provided meaningful learning experiences for committee members serving as Liaison Officers (LOs). The majority of them, who were students, had the opportunity to build connections and networks with various universities participating in the AFEBI Congress.

Welcoming Dinner

In the evening, the series continued with a Welcoming Dinner held at Taman Aruna Senggigi Resort & Convention. The event began with remarks from the Dean of FEB Unram, who emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among universities in building a competitive ecosystem for economics and business education.

This was followed by remarks from the Chairman of AFEBI, who expressed appreciation for FEB Unram’s thorough preparation and highlighted AFEBI’s crucial role in addressing the challenges of higher education in the era of digital transformation and economic globalization.

The dinner was accompanied by musical performances and cultural shows that introduced the richness of Lombok’s arts to the guests. This moment served as the first step in strengthening informal communication and fostering inter-university connections.

AFEBI XIII Plenary Meeting: Discussing the Future of Economics and Business Education in Indonesia

The second day featured the main agenda: the Plenary Meeting, attended by deans and leaders of FEB from 73 PTNs. The forum discussed various strategic issues, including organizational policy directions, challenges faced by institutions of economics and business education, and AFEBI’s work programs for the upcoming three years.

As the largest association of economics and business faculties in Indonesia, AFEBI plays an important role in harmonizing strategic steps among universities, developing innovative learning systems, and ensuring that FEB graduates remain competitive both nationally and globally.

The discussions were intense and interactive, involving AFEBI board members and all attending delegates. Key topics included strengthening the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum, improving the quality of scientific publications, accelerating collaborative research, and aligning tridharma programs.

The plenary session concluded with the election of the National Executive Board (DPN) and the AFEBI General Chair for the 2026–2029 term, ensuring the organization’s continuity and responsiveness to future challenges.

EMBA Program Forum: A Space for Academic Exchange

Simultaneously, the Study Program Forum for Master’s and Doctoral Programs in Economics, Management, Business, and Accounting (EMBA) was held. This forum brought together program managers, academic coordinators, and lecturers from various universities to discuss curriculum development, program management challenges, and innovative teaching approaches aligned with industry dynamics.

The EMBA Forum served as a strategic avenue for sharing best practices, strengthening academic networks, and formulating collaborative initiatives among universities.

Gala Dinner at Merumatta Senggigi: Supported by Bank Indonesia NTB

On Wednesday evening, 26 November 2025, participants attended a Gala Dinner at the beachfront restaurant of Merumatta Senggigi Hotel. The elegant event was fully supported by Bank Indonesia NTB Representative Office, highlighting strong collaboration between academic institutions and national financial authorities.

The gala dinner provided an informal and enjoyable environment for FEB leaders to expand their networks, strengthen research collaboration, and build sustainable institutional partnerships.

Acara Inti Kongres: Kehadiran Tokoh Nasional sebagai Keynote Speakers

The highlight of the 13th AFEBI Congress featured prominent national figures who delivered strategic insights on Indonesia’s development agenda, higher education challenges, and innovations in economic and business policy. The keynote speakers included:

• Minister of Higher Education, Science & Technology, Republic of Indonesia: Prof. Brian Yuliarto, Ph.D.

• Governor of West Nusa Tenggara Province: Dr. H. Lalu Muhammad Iqbal

• Deputy Head of Bank Indonesia NTB Representative Office: Ignatius Adhi Nugroho

• Independent Commissioner of PT Krakatau Steel (Tbk)

• Chairman of AFEBI: Prof. Dr. Abdul Rohman Kadir, SE., M.Si.

• Vice President of Strategic Planning and Business Development: Putra Pradipta

In their presentations, the speakers highlighted the importance of synergy between academia, government, and industry in building a knowledge-based economy. They also encouraged universities to strengthen innovation, expand international collaborations, and improve human resource quality.

Parallel Sessions: Deepening Academic Discussions

Following the main congress session, parallel sessions were held for various study program forums, including:

• Islamic Economics Study Program Forum
• Economics Study Program Forum
• Accounting Study Program Forum
• Management Study Program Forum

Each forum discussed current issues relevant to the development of their respective disciplines, including curriculum adjustments, research trends, professional certification, and strategies for improving both national and international accreditation.

FEB Unram Reinforces Its Commitment to Collaboration and Innovation

The successful implementation of the 13th AFEBI Congress stands as clear evidence of FEB Unram’s capability in managing large-scale national events. It also demonstrates FEB Unram’s commitment to advancing academic excellence, building strategic collaboration, and contributing to the development of economics and business education in Indonesia.

FEB Unram hopes that the outcomes of this congress will provide meaningful contributions to improving the quality of economics and business education, strengthening inter-university partnerships, and fostering sustainable innovation for Indonesia’s progress.

Photographers: Lombok Dokumentasi & FEB Unram Public Relations
Editor: Chandra Priyadi