Celebrating its 52nd anniversary, HPI distributes topics on cross-generational translators and expands its global reach through cooperation with ISEO Argentina.
JAKARTA, 5 February 2026 – The Association of Indonesian Translators (HPI) celebrated its 52nd anniversary online on Thursday (February 5), marking more than half a century of its existence as the oldest and largest professional association of translators and interpreters in the country. This year’s celebration featured a sharing session on translators across the ages and the strengthening of international networks through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Argentina’s Instituto Superior de Estudios Orientales (ISEO), which became HPI’s first international educational partner.
The event was opened with a historical flashback and a commitment to the profession. Mr. Hendarto Setiadi, Chairman of the HPI Advisory Board, reminded members that the development of HPI from a simple association to a well-established professional organization was a collective success. “We are all committed to remaining professional, maintaining the dignity of the profession, and strengthening public trust in the members of the organization,” he said.
In line with this, the Chairperson of the HPI Supervisory Board, Mrs. Sofia Mansoor, expressed her appreciation for the integrity of the members. Since its appointment in June 2025, the Supervisory Board has not received a single report of ethical violations. “Amid technological advances and changes in the way we work, ethical values, integrity, and professional responsibility must remain our guiding principles. HPI is a professional organization, as well as a shared home that fosters competence,” she said.
HPI Chairman Dr. Indra Listyo emphasized in his speech that cross-continental collaboration with ISEO is a strategic step toward creating opportunities for knowledge exchange and training for future translators. “The signing of this MoU is not merely a ceremony, but a new chapter in a partnership based on mutual respect and a shared vision to advance the profession on the global stage,” said Dr. Indra.
The celebration of the 52nd anniversary continued with a “Sharing Session” featuring Dr. Sugeng Hariyanto, Chair of the HPI Competency and Certification Committee. In a sharing session titled “Becoming a Translator of Five Eras: from Typewriters to AI,” he discussed the evolution of the profession and encouraged members to remain responsive and adaptive to artificial intelligence technology in order to increase global competitiveness. With a spirit of transformation, HPI is committed to continuing to be a credible, inclusive, and relevant professional home for all its members.
This session concluded with three quotes from Dr. Sugeng Hariyanto that all translators should remember.
“Translation is not about typing faster—it is about understanding deeper.”
“Translation is not about making text, it is about understanding context.”
“Translating is not about quick thinking, it is about love of language and meaning.”
After a one-hour break, the next session began with a speech from Daniel Villalón, Director of International Relations at ISEO, on behalf of ISEO Rector Victor Sajoza Juric and Mayor of Las Varillas, Cordoba Province, Mauro Daniele.
In his speech, Daniel emphasized the importance of this cooperation as a turning point in intercultural relations with social impact that has been developed between Argentina and Indonesia. This memorandum of understanding represents a long-term commitment to bridge the societies of these two countries through educational and language cooperation.
The event was also attended by two representatives from the Indonesian Embassy in Argentina, Mr. Gatot Amrih, Coordinator for Counselor Protocol for Socio-Cultural Functions, and Ms. Arshie Ramadhani, Executing Officer for Socio-Cultural Functions.
The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between HPI and ISEO was the highlight of the evening, with Mr. Indra Listyo and Daniel Villalón signing the document and showing it to the camera.
On behalf of the Indonesian Translators Association, we would like to thank all those who supported the smooth running of today’s event, and we hope that the cooperation between HPI and ISEO will benefit all stakeholders in both countries.
See you at the next HPI event!
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