Two Psychology students from Mercu Buana University Yogyakarta (UMBY), Rahma Aliya Ramadhani and Muhammad Harits Zahry, have achieved outstanding success at the national level. Both secured first place and won gold medals at the Tapak Suci Barie Irsyad Championship 4, a national tournament held at the Pangukan Sports Hall in Sleman, Yogyakarta, on Saturday and Sunday (September 26–27, 2026).

This national-scale martial arts event drew approximately 865 *pesilat* (martial artists) from various regions across Indonesia, including Yogyakarta (DIY), Jakarta, and other areas. Beyond fostering achievement and strengthening bonds of brotherhood, the championship served as a platform to preserve the martial arts philosophy and values ​​of the Tapak Suci school.

In the competition, Muhammad Harits Zahry excelled in the Men's Adult *Seni Tunggal* (Solo Artistic) Empty-Hand category. Judging for this category was based on Tapak Suci artistic competition regulations, which emphasize three key elements: *Wiraga* (attack-defense techniques, physicality, and stances), *Wirama* (tempo, rhythm, and dynamics), and *Wirasa* (spirit/expression and warrior character).

Harits's achievement is particularly remarkable given the heavy academic workload of his seventh semester. Born in Yogyakarta on April 8, 2005, he had to balance intensive training with the preparation of his thesis proposal and practicum reports.

"Alhamdulillah, I am deeply grateful to have been given the opportunity to compete and succeed. The challenges are significant during this final stage of my studies, especially regarding self-regulation and stress management amidst academic busyness. The key is to remain patient, focus on what is within our control, and stay resilient," said Harits. This victory adds to Harits's track record of achievements in *pencak silat*, following his previous wins at the Tapak Suci World Championship 2 at Brawijaya University, Malang (2025), the UMBY Sports Science FKIP Provincial Championship (2025), and the Purworejo Fighter 2 Pencak Silat Championship.

Rahma Aliya Ramadhani also achieved a proud milestone. For the student—born in Batu on October 18, 2005—this marked her third time competing in the adult category. The gold medal she secured underscores her capabilities following a period of intensive training.

"I feel very happy, grateful, and proud of the results achieved. This victory serves as motivation for me to keep training and addressing my weaknesses so I can deliver an even better performance in future competitions," said Aliya.

Aliya added that her primary motivation for entering the competition was to test the effectiveness of her training, build confidence in the arena, and expand her network among fellow athletes.

The success of these two Psychology students has garnered high praise from UMBY. The Head of UMBY’s Student Affairs and Alumni Bureau, Ir. Reo Sambodo, S.P., M.M.A., expressed his pride in the dedication and hard work demonstrated by Harits and Aliya on the national stage.

"We are delighted and extend our highest appreciation for the gold medals won by Harits and Aliya. This success serves as tangible proof that UMBY students are capable of balancing their academic obligations while simultaneously achieving success in non-academic fields at the national level," stated Ir. Reo. The institution emphasized its continued commitment to providing the facilities and opportunities for all students to explore and fully develop their potential.

"It is hoped that this achievement will not only be a source of pride for the individual and the alma mater but also ignite the spirit and motivate other UMBY students to step forward, compete, and excel in their respective fields," he concluded.