Bridging Policy and Practice: TEFLIN’s Voice at the 60th RELC International Conference
The Association for the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language in Indonesia (TEFLIN) proudly highlights the participation of Maria Hidayati as its representative attending the 60th RELC International Conference, held by Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization, Regional Language Centre.


The conference, themed “Global Trends and Innovations in Language Education: Theory, Research, and Practice in Action” was held from 9 – 11 March 2026 at the RELC International Hotel in Singapore. This prestigious international event brought together educators, researchers, and practitioners from across the globe to discuss the emerging trends and innovations in language education. This conference invited a distinguished lineup of speakers from diverse regions, including Barry Bai (The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong), Gary Barkhuisen (The University of Auckland, New Zealand), Betsy Gilliland (University of Hawaii Manoa, US), Rodney Jones (University of Reading, United Kingdom), Victor Lim Fei (Nanyang Technological University, Singapore), Dat Bao (Monash University, Australia), and other prominent speakers. Their participation reflects the strong international representation of Asia-Pacific, Oceania, North America, and Europe, enriching the conference with diverse perspectives on language pedagogy, teacher education, and technological innovation in English Language Teaching.


Representing TEFLIN, Maria Hidayati delivered a featured presentation entitled “Bridging Policy and Practice: Teachers’ Professional Growth through TEFLIN Deep Learning Training and Workshop.” Her presentation addressed the critical gap between educational policy and classroom practice, highlighting how TEFLIN’s professional development initiatives contribute to enhancing teachers’ pedagogical competence through deep learning approaches. Her participation underscores TEFLIN’s active engagement in global academic forums and its commitment to advancing English language teaching in Indonesia.
The conference also provided valuable opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and future collaboration with international scholars and institutions. Through this international platform, TEFLIN continues to strengthen its role in fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and promoting innovation in language education. Insights gained from the conference, aligned with its theme, are expected to strengthen TEFLIN’s programs in Indonesia. The focus on innovation and the integration of theory, research, and practice can be translated into teacher training initiatives that incorporate AI and digital tools. In addition, the emphasis on global trends such as multilingualism and intercultural competence supports the development of more context-sensitive and inclusive classroom practices.
TEFLIN Representation at the 22nd Annual CamTESOL Conference 2026: Contributing Indonesian Perspectives on AI Integration in ELT
TEFLIN participated in the 22nd Annual CamTESOL Conference, held on 6–8 February 2026 in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, through an official delegation represented by Dr. Afif Ikhwanul Muslimin as a Featured Speaker. The conference carried the theme “The Future of English Language Teaching in the Digital Era: Empowering Teaching and Transforming Learners,” bringing together educators, researchers, and practitioners to explore current developments and challenges in English language education.
CamTESOL, established in 2005 by IDP Education Cambodia, has grown into a major international professional development forum, attracting more than 600 international participants from around 30 countries each year, with total attendance reaching approximately 1,700 delegates. This wide participation provides a dynamic platform for scholarly exchange, networking, and the sharing of pedagogical innovations across diverse educational contexts.
In this forum, TEFLIN contributed a featured session entitled Teaching English Beyond the Metropolis: Lessons on AI Integration and Digital Literacy from Lombok, Indonesia, delivered as a 30-minute workshop. The presentation highlighted research based on classroom and teacher experiences in a peripheral Indonesian context, offering perspectives on how artificial intelligence can be meaningfully integrated into English language teaching through locally grounded practices and teacher-driven adaptation.
TEFLIN’s participation strengthened academic engagement with regional and global ELT communities while opening opportunities for collaboration with partner organizations and institutions. The conference also enabled the exchange of insights on emerging trends, including digital transformation, teacher development, and context-sensitive innovation in language education. Through this engagement, TEFLIN continues to affirm its commitment to contributing Indonesian scholarship to international dialogue and to fostering professional growth among its members through global collaboration.
Serving as an International Affiliate at the 45th Thai International Conference, 29 – 31 January, 2026
In response to the invitation to the 45th Thai International Conference, TEFLIN was represented by Prof. Siti Nurul Azkiyah, Ph.D., who delivered a presentation titled “Empowering English Teachers in the Digital Age: Media and Information Literacy for 21st-Century Classrooms.” It highlights the rapid advancement of technology and the unprecedented information flows, which certainly transform classrooms and students’ daily lives, and therefore call for Media and Information Literacy (MIL) skills. This presentation explores the roles of MIL in equipping English teachers to navigate the challenges of misinformation, the pervasive use and impact of AI, and multimodal communication in English language teaching.
The representation of TEFLIN in this conference enhanced its engagement with regional and global ELT communities, creating new opportunities for international collaboration. The conference facilitated exchanges on key developments, including digital transformation, teacher development, and context-responsive innovation in language education. This involvement reaffirmed TEFLIN’s commitment to contributing Indonesian scholarship to international discourse and advancing members’ professional growth through global partnerships.
Dr. Ari Danuwijaya Represented TEFLIN at 2025 ALAK International Conference & AILA East Asia Forum
TEFLIN participated as a Featured Speaker in the 2025 ALAK International Conference and AILA East Asia Forum held on September 20, 2025, at Seoul National University, South Korea. Represented by Dr. Ari Danuwijaya from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, TEFLIN delivered a presentation on innovative English language teaching practices in Indonesia, highlighting the integration of pedagogy, technology, and teacher development.


The conference, themed “Language Education and Learning Sciences,” gathered leading scholars from East Asia to discuss emerging trends in applied linguistics, language learning, and AI-enhanced pedagogy. TEFLIN’s active involvement strengthened Indonesia’s academic presence, fostered new collaborative research opportunities, and showcased Indonesia’s contribution to advancing English language education in the global AILA network.
M. Zaim, Representing TEFLIN as Featured Speaker at the Eight Global English Education China Assembly and Belt and Road Forum for Language and Culture Collaboration


Prof. Dr. M. Zaim, M.Hum., the Vice President of TEFLIN, was invited as a featured speaker at the Eight Global English Education China Assembly and Belt and Road Forum for Language and Culture Collaboration organized by the Global English Education China Assembly. This event was held on July 24-27, 2025 at Beijing Normal University, Beijing with the aim of strengthening communication and collaboration between China and other countries in the field of English language education, offering a global perspective on English language in China, and providing insights from Chinese wisdom for global English language education. In this event, Prof. Dr. M. Zaim, M.Hum. introduced TEFLIN as a professional teaching organization for Teaching English as a Foreign Language in Indonesia and presented a paper entitled “Deep Learning: Fostering Mindful, Meaningful, and Joyful Learning for Teaching English as a Foreign Language at Secondary School in Indonesia”. The conference was attended by English Language Education experts from various countries, representatives of English language professional organizations, as well as English teachers and students in China.


Miftakul Andriani Participated on Behalf of TEFLIN at the Global English Education China Assembly (GEECA) 2025
TEFLIN (The Association for the Teaching of English as a Foreign Language in Indonesia) took part in the prestigious international event, the Global English Education China Assembly (GEECA) 2025, held on 24–27 July 2025 in Beijing, China.
GEECA is an annual forum that brings together educators, researchers, and practitioners from various countries to discuss strategic issues in English language teaching as a foreign language. The event features plenary sessions, workshops, panel discussions, research presentations, professional networking sessions, and innovation exhibitions aimed at:
- promoting the exchange of ideas and best practices in English education and strengthening international collaboration among educational institutions,
- providing a platform for professional development for teachers, lecturers, and researchers,
- showcasing the latest innovations in learning technology and pedagogical approaches.


On this occasion, TEFLIN sent a delegation of active members to take part in a series of activities designed to broaden insights and expand professional networks in the field of English language education. The activities attended by participants included:
1. Plenary Sessions and International Seminars
The delegation attended the opening session and main seminars featuring leading speakers from various countries. Topics discussed included:
- Global trends in English language teaching
- Language education policy in the digital era
- Pedagogical innovation and learning technologies
2. Interactive Workshops
Participants joined several thematic workshops that were practical and applicable, such as:
- Project-Based Learning strategies
- Developing contextual and inclusive teaching materials
- Utilizing AI and technology in the English classroom


3. International Discussion and Networking Forums
The delegation engaged in small-group forums that brought together educators from different countries. These activities served as opportunities to exchange experiences, challenges, and solutions in English teaching across diverse local contexts.
4. Education and Book Exhibition
Participants visited exhibition areas showcasing various educational products, textbooks, learning technologies, and innovations from global educational institutions.
5. Delegation Meetings and Collaboration Opportunities
The TEFLIN delegation also attended special meetings with representatives of educational organizations from other countries to explore potential collaborations, teacher exchanges, and joint research initiatives.
TEFLIN’s participation in GEECA 2025 reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting the professional development of English teachers in Indonesia and expanding international networks to enhance the quality of language education worldwide.
Masitowarni Siregar to Represent TEFLIN at the 2025 KATE International Conference Korea
On July 17–18, 2025, TEFLIN had the honor of participating in the prestigious international event, the 2025 KATE International Conference, held at the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) in Seoul, South Korea. This annual conference, organized by the Korea Association of Teachers of English (KATE), was attended by approximately 700 participants, including lecturers, teachers, education practitioners, and students from various countries such as South Korea, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, and China.


On this occasion, TEFLIN was represented by Dr. Masitowarni Siregar, M.Ed., who served as a Featured Speaker and delivered a presentation titled “Softening the Barriers – Students’ Awareness of Metacognitive Strategies-Based Teaching to Empower In-Service English Teachers.” The presentation highlighted the importance of integrating metacognitive strategies in English language teaching, particularly within teacher education contexts. These strategies are seen as effective in reducing learning barriers, enhancing students’ awareness of their learning processes, and empowering in-service English teachers to adopt more reflective and student-centered teaching approaches.


Dr. Masitowarni Siregar, M.Ed. session was well-received, sparking active and enthusiastic discussions among the participants. TEFLIN’s participation in this conference not only strengthened Indonesia’s presence in the international academic arena but also opened up broader opportunities for collaboration and professional networking in the field of English language teaching. Through active engagement in global forums like this, TEFLIN continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering innovation and quality in English language education both nationally and internationally.
Maria Hidayati at AsiaTEFL 2025: Bringing forward Indonesian Voices
Dr. Maria Hidayati, TEFLIN Secretary General, was to present at the 23<sup>rd</sup> AsiaTEFL International conference, taking place on July 11 – 13, 2025, at the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK).
With its theme <sup>“Care, Innovation, and Sustainability in ELT”</sup>, AsiaTEFL 2025 gathers educators, practitioners, and scholars from across Asia and beyond to discuss how English language teaching can adapt to the shifting needs of learners and societies.
In this global forum, Dr. Hidayati contributed perspectives from Indonesia, sharing insights grounded in her own teaching and learning contexts at Universitas Negeri Malang. Her participation reflects TEFLIN’s dedication to ensuring that Indonesian voices are heard in international discussions.
She expressed that being part of AsiaTEFL is both a privilege and an opportunity. She looks forward to engaging with colleagues from diverse background, exchanging knowledge, and fostering partnerships that can strengthen collaboration between Indonesian educators and the wider global ELT community.
“This is an important chance not only to share my experiences, but also to learn from others and how we can work together for sustainable and innovative English teaching practice,” she remarked.
Her role at AsiaTEFL 2025 highlights the growing impact of Indonesian scholarship on the international stage. By representing TEFLIN, she brings forward a collective voice that emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration in English language education.
Narrated by: Maria Hidayati
Utami Widiati, Representing TEFLIN as a Featured Speaker at the 23rd AsiaTEFL International Conference
Prof. Utami Widiati, TEFLIN President and Professor at Universitas Negeri Malang, has been invited to serve as a Featured Speaker at the 23rd AsiaTEFL International Conference. The conference took place on July 11 – 13, 2025 at the Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), one of Asia’s leading institutions in teacher education and research.
The theme of the conference is “Care, Innovation, and Sustainability in ELT” which provides a vibrant platform for exchanging ideas, addressing current challenges, and envisioning the future of English Language Teaching in a global context. This conference draws together a diverse community of English language teachers, scholars, and practitioners from across the world.
As a featured speaker, Prof. Utami Widiati delivered her insights on the evolving dynamics of English education, highlighting sustainable practices that can shape the future of ELT. Her participation at AsiaTEFL showcases TEFLIN’s strong engagement at the international level and also reflexts her long-standing expertise in the field.
Expressing her gratitude, Prof. Widiati emphasized the value of AsiaTEFL as a collaborative and forward-looking forum where educators and researcher can share knowledge, build networks, and collectively contribute to the improvement of English language teaching worldwide. She regards this invitation as both an honor and a responsibility to bring Indonesian perspectives and experiences to the international stage. Beyond the event itself, this milestone represents TEFLIN’s commitment to building stronger international networks.
It is expected that her presence at AsiaTEFL 2025 generate meaningful ripple effects for TEFLI, and her insights are shared with educators, researchers, and policymakers in Indonesia.
Narrated by: Maria Hidayati
Ikhsanudin, TEFLIN Representative as Featured Speaker at BELTA BELTA-NSU International Conference 2024
As one of BELTA’s affiliates, TEFLIN was honored to send a representative to the BELTA-NSU International Conference 2024/11th BELTA International Conference held at North South University (NSU) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on December 6-7, 2024. Dr. Ikhsanudin was appointed to represent TEFLIN as a featured speaker and panellist at this prestigious event.
The conference commenced with an opening address by BELTA President, Professor Ahmed Bashir, at the NSU Main Auditorium. This was followed by a welcome speech from NSU President, Dr. Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, who introduced the university to the attendees. Both speeches highlighted the remarkable achievements of BELTA, the largest association of English teachers in Bangladesh, and NSU, the nation’s top-ranked private university.


Dr. Ikhsanudin delivered an outstanding featured presentation on the Quranic Framework of Language Teaching. His session was well-attended by notable figures, including the current and former BELTA presidents, BELTA General Secretary, and Dr. Martin Lamb from the University of Leeds, UK, one of the conference keynote speakers.
As one of four panelists, Dr. Ikhsanudin spoke on TEFLIN’s role in advancing English language education in Indonesia, fostering international collaborations, and supporting sustainable development goals. The panel discussion, titled Pathways for Promoting Effective Partnerships: Strengthening Teacher Association (TA) Ties, was held as a plenary session in the NSU Main Auditorium and attended by all speakers and participants.


TEFLIN’s representative successfully engaged with BELTA’s executive board, conference committee members, invited speakers, and participants, showcasing TEFLIN’s commitment to strengthening international ties. The conference was a resounding success, drawing nearly 400 English language educators from various countries and impressing attendees with its excellent organization and enriching sessions.




















