Preserving Culture in the Digital Age: Fikom Unpad Student Explores the Role of Information Literacy in the Banyumas Community in Bandung

BANDUNG – A student from the Library and Information Science (PSI) Study Program at Fikom Unpad, Shelpi Nur Awaliyah, has successfully published her scientific article titled “Cultural Information Literacy of the Banyumas Migrant Community in Bandung in the Preservation of Banyumas Arts.” This research, conducted in Bandung in 2025, was supervised by Dr. Ute Lies Khadijah, Evi Nursanti Rukmana, M.I.Kom., and Dr. Rully Khairul Anwar. Its main focus is to identify how the Genta Sentramas Community, a migrant community from Banyumas, uses cultural information literacy to preserve and promote their traditional arts in Bandung.

The research is based on the premise that cultural information literacy plays a crucial role in preserving traditional arts in the modern era, especially among diaspora communities. The Genta Sentramas Community, known for being actively involved in cultural activities, was considered an ideal subject for this study. The research’s objective was to understand how they leverage cultural information literacy to maintain the continuity of Banyumas arts, such as dance and music, amidst the challenges of modernization.

Using a qualitative method and a purposive sampling technique, the researcher collected data from members of the Genta Sentramas Community. This method allowed for an in-depth understanding of the practices and initiatives undertaken by the community. The findings reveal that the community’s cultural information literacy is manifested through the use of information technology, particularly social media and digital platforms. Through these platforms, they document and disseminate information about their traditional arts to the younger generation and the wider community.

In addition to leveraging technology, other forms of cultural information literacy found include visits to local cultural heritage sites and organizing art workshops. These practices not only facilitate information access but also encourage community members to take an active role in producing and promoting their cultural elements. This shows that cultural information literacy is not merely passive but also proactive in preserving cultural heritage.

The research concludes that cultural information literacy is a vital instrument for maintaining the sustainability of traditional Banyumas arts. The community’s efforts ensure that their cultural identity remains alive and relevant within the diverse society of Bandung. The findings provide valuable insights into how diaspora communities can utilize modern tools for cultural preservation purposes.This publication has been featured in the Informatio: Journal of Library and Information Science, making a significant contribution to the literature in the field of library and information science. The research also aligns with two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, SDG 4: Quality Education, which promotes education and literacy for all, including cultural literacy. Second, SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, which aims to preserve cultural heritage. The study demonstrates how communities in urban areas can actively preserve their traditions, creating more inclusive and culturally rich cities.

The publication can be accessed via the following link: http://media.unpad.ac.id/files/publikasi/2025/rpm_20250202065824_9178.pdf

Writers: Ridha Amalia, Nadziva Shaqeena, and Delfin Gusti Wanda

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