An Inspiring and Forward-Looking Opening Address by Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Marks the Beginning of the 22nd AsiaCALL International Conference 2025
Cirebon, November 15, 2025 — Lala Bumela Sudimantara, Ph.D., Director of the International Office of UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon (UIN SSC) and President of the 22nd AsiaCALL International Conference, opened the welcoming session of the conference held at the 8th-floor auditorium of the Cyber Building, UIN SSC. He started by presenting a reflective “what if” scenario that highlighted the intertwined roles of technology and human in language learning. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. proposed that the most powerful technology in CALL (Computer-Assisted Language Learning) is not solely embedded in algorithms but is also found in the quiet courage of someone who adapt digital tools even when facing limited access such as having no internet at home. He emphasized that AsiaCALL stands not only as an academic forum but also as a collaborative movement that brings together scholars from various countries. During his address, Lala Bumela, Ph.D. extended deep respect to distinguished keynote speakers, university leaders, participants, and all attendees. “This conference is yours, it thrives because of the participants’ hard work, late-night revisions, rehearsals, and dedication in preparing their research presentations.”
The event was attended by a diverse group of guests representing various universities and countries. The keynote speakers included Ania Lian, Ph.D. (Vice President of AsiaCALL), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Vu Phi Ho, Ph.D. (Vice President for Administrative Affairs and Publication of AsiaCALL), and Prof. Dr. Jeremy White. Distinguished speakers such as Assoc. Prof. Hassan Khosravi, Ph.D. (The University of Queensland, Australia), Prof. Shameem Rafik-Galea, Ph.D. (SEGi University, Malaysia), and Made Hery Santosa, Ph.D. (Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha) also attended the event, while Luqman Baehaqi, Ph.D. (UIN Palangka Raya) joined online. From UIN SSC, Prof. Dr. Hj. Ria Yulia Gloria, M.Pd.(Head of Quakitu Assurance), representing the university leadership, attended alongside Dra. Hj. Amroh Umaemah, M.Pd. (Head of the English Language Teaching Department), Hendi Hidayat, M.Pd. (Secretary of the English Language Teaching Department), and several other lecturers. External representatives, including delegates from Hakim Ventura International, were also present. Additionally, presenters from Japan, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Netherlands, the Philippines, and many other countries added a vibrant international dimension. Their presence underscored the conference’s mission to foster cross-cultural exchange and advance CALL research globally.
Lala Bumela, Ph.D. stressed that AsiaCALL is more than just an acronym; it represents a commitment to ensure that as technology transforms language teaching and learning, human dignity, cultural rootedness, and pedagogical wisdom remain at the core. He also acknowledged the leadership of Prof. Andrew Lian, Ph.D., who for more than a decade has transformed AsiaCALL from a regional initiative into a dynamic, human-centered movement. “Prof. Andrew Lian diidn’t just expand our network but deepened our purpose, from championing Multisensory Assisted Language Learning to advocating for rhizomatic learning, and from bridging neuroscience with classroom practice to fostering collaboration across Asia, Australia, and beyond.” He affirmed that such leadership has shaped AsiaCALL into a movement where innovation is guided by empathy and intellectual humility. This approach ensures future CALL developments remain aligned with meaningful educational values. AsiaCALL stands not only on innovation but on the wisdom and solidarity of its community.
Throughout his address, Lala Bumela, Ph.D. expressed his appreciation to the presenters who traveled across borders, bringing questions rooted in local realities and openness to unexpected answers. He noted that such curiosity is the driving force behind the conference’s academic richness. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. also highlighted the contributions of the International Office members including Ivo Dinasta Yanuar, S.S., M.Appling. and Ghina Amaliyah Sholihah, S.Sos., Global Engagement Team, and volunteers who played crucial roles in ensuring the success of the event. He acknowledged the behind-the-scenes efforts that shaped the smooth running of the opening session. Their dedication, he said, exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that AsiaCALL aims to cultivate. This synergy, according to him, is what transforms the conference from a formal gathering into a meaningful academic home.
The welcoming remarks also reflected on the evolving landscape of language learning in the digital era. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. emphasized that while technology continues to accelerate innovation at unprecedented speeds, it must remain anchored in humanity. He encouraged the audience to view CALL as a bridge that connects digital tools with cultural meaning, learner identity, and educational purpose. Educators should not allow technology to overshadow the human values at the heart of language education. Instead, technology should serve as an enabler—supporting, not replacing, the wisdom and creativity of teachers and learners. These reflections prompted participants to rethink the balance between rapid digital transformation and the timeless values of compassion and integrity. His insights resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom recognized the relevance of this message in the current educational climate.
The speech concluded with heartfelt thanks to the keynote and distinguished speakers, UIN Siber Syekh Nurjati Cirebon, participants from around the world, the organizing committee, and volunteers who supported the smooth running of the conference. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. expressed his appreciation to every scholar who contributed their expertise and passion to the 22nd AsiaCALL International Conference. He reaffirmed that the conference’s strength lies in its community’s dedication to exchanging ideas and pursuing impactful research. The atmosphere of the hall reflected a deep sense of unity and shared purpose among participants. Lala Bumela, Ph.D. closed with a reflective question: “What kind of future do you want to create? A future where technology leads or a future where humanity leads, and technology follows with grace?” His closing remarks left the audience with a powerful reminder of the role they play in shaping the next chapter of CALL. The opening session ended with warm applause, marking a meaningful beginning to the conference.
Author: Salsabilla