MAJENE – Amid the rapid pace of digital transformation, where social interactions are increasingly shifting to smartphone screens, opportunities for face-to-face community engagement have become more valuable than ever. Recognizing this, Universitas Terbuka (UT) Majene took part in the Open Garda Bintang Timur Cup I Domino Tournament 2026. More than simply serving as a sponsor, UT Majene’s involvement reflects the university’s commitment to supporting community initiatives that strengthen social ties, preserve local culture, and provide positive spaces for public interaction.
The tournament, held over several days at Hotel Davina in Kabupaten Majene, Sulawesi Barat, carried the theme “Building Friendship, Achieving Excellence.” The theme was reflected in the enthusiasm of hundreds of participants from various regions who gathered not only to compete but also to reconnect, build friendships, and celebrate a recreational sport that has long been part of the local community’s cultural heritage.
For UT Majene, participating in the event is part of the university’s social responsibility, extending beyond the delivery of higher education to contributing to stronger community life. By supporting activities that promote togetherness, UT Majene seeks to remain a development partner that stays closely connected to the community and responsive to its evolving needs.
UT Majene’s Manager of Finance, Human Resources, and General Affairs, Surahmansyah, S.IP., M.M., emphasized that the domino tournament represents much more than a competition.
“This domino championship is organized to reduce people’s dependence on gadgets while reviving social values and local wisdom,” he said.
His remarks illustrate that beyond every match lies a broader mission, to revive traditions of gathering, discussion, and stronger community relationships. These values align with UT’s vision of fostering an inclusive educational ecosystem, where the university is not only a place of learning but also an active contributor to social life and community development.
The participation of a higher education institution in events like this also demonstrates how collaboration between academia and local communities can generate social impacts that extend far beyond the competition itself.
The tournament was organized through collaboration among the organizing committee, the Indonesian Domino Sports Association (Perkumpulan Olahraga Domino Indonesia – PORDI) of Sulawesi Barat Province, and PORDI Kabupaten Majene. In addition to strengthening community ties, the competition offered a total prize of millions of rupiah, creating a highly competitive atmosphere while upholding the spirit of sportsmanship.
Throughout the two-day tournament, participants showcased their strategy, teamwork, and ability to anticipate their opponents’ moves. After a series of closely contested matches, the duo of Muh. Idris CS from Tomadio Campa Polman emerged as the overall champion, taking home the championship trophy and the tournament’s top prize.
The runner-up position went to Andika CS Ewin from Mamuju. Meanwhile, Ahmad CS Ade Sukardi from TFD Tapalang Mamuju secured the third place, followed by Aco CS Acci from Ablam Enrekang in fourth.
The successful organization of the tournament also received appreciation from the organizing committee, which expressed its gratitude to UT Majene for its support and contribution in ensuring the event was conducted safely, smoothly, and successfully.
Through collaborations that strengthen community solidarity, preserve local culture, and encourage public participation, UT Majene continues to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
