We are pleased to announce that Adrian Perkasa will defend his PhD thesis The cultural network: Javanese imaginings of Indonesia, 1918-1966 on Wednesday, 21 May 2025, at 16:00 CET.

This dissertation investigates the role of the Java-Instituut and the network of notable intellectuals connected to it, scrutinizing the discourses of Javanese culture, identity, and nationalism.

The study focuses on two central themes: first, the development of the Java-Instituut as a formal institution and the role of its members in shaping Indonesian nationalism; and second, the more diffuse social network around it, encompassing a diverse group of people, including Dutch-trained scholars, Javanese noblemen, Islamic leaders, nationalist figures, Chinese intellectuals, Sumatran-born writers, and even a Jewish socialist. 

The aim of this study is to acquire a deeper understanding of the role of this network in the development of Java-centric politics and identity in Indonesia from the late
colonial to the early decades of the nation-building period.

Summary thesis

More information on the defence

PhD candidate

Adrian Perkasa (KITLV / Leiden University)