The Doctoral Program in Legal Science at the Faculty of Law, Gadjah Mada University, hosted a guest lecture titled “GEO-LITERACY: The Role of Geospatial Information in Safeguarding National Sovereignty.” The guest lecture was held on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The event was attended by Prof. Muhammad Kamal, S.Si., M.GIS., Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Geography at UGM and an expert in the field of remote sensing.
This guest lecture discussed the importance of geospatial data and information in the context of Indonesia’s geographical conditions as the world’s largest archipelago, which to this day still has several islands that have not been officially registered. The availability of geospatial data and information is essential for managing Indonesia effectively, efficiently, and sustainably. Geospatial information plays a strategic role in safeguarding national sovereignty. Through the accurate mapping of land, sea, and air boundaries, geospatial information serves as the foundation for establishing and securing the country’s territorial boundaries. Additionally, geospatial information is used as a legal basis in international diplomacy and the resolution of boundary disputes, for managing strategic natural resources, as well as for defense planning and disaster response.
This event was held both in person and online via Zoom, with participants from the Doctor of Legal Science program, classes of 2020–2025. Attendance is mandatory for students in the Doctor of Law program, class of 2025, who are currently taking the course on law and globalization. Additionally, this event is open to students in the Doctor of Law program from the classes of 2020–2024 who wish to expand their knowledge in the field of geospatial information.
The theme of this guest lecture is relevant given the growing need for geospatial awareness to address the complexities of managing Indonesia’s territory. Furthermore, this guest lecture aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Hosting this guest lecture also reflects the UGM Faculty of Law’s commitment to supporting SDG 4—Quality Education.
Author : Alexandra Lisa Wijaya (PDIH)
