UNDIP, Semarang (21/6) – An alumna of the Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Diponegoro (FK UNDIP), dr. Maria Ardelia Purwaningrum, Sp.N., has demonstrated remarkable achievements not only in the medical field but also on the national stage. The neurologist, who graduated in 2017, made the university proud by reaching the Top 6 and winning the Fan Favorite title at Miss Universe Indonesia 2024.
Affectionately known as dr. Mardel, she became the first medical specialist in Indonesia to participate in the prestigious pageant. Through the competition, she promoted advocacy focused on health and education, aiming to create a broader positive impact on society through a non-traditional platform.
“For me, this pageant is not merely about competition or beauty. It is an opportunity and a platform to expand health education and raise public awareness, particularly about neurology,” said dr. Mardel.
Following her success at Miss Universe Indonesia 2024, dr. Mardel has actively carried out various health and educational outreach programs. Her work reflects a meaningful contribution beyond her clinical practice as a neurologist.
In addition to her accomplishments in medicine and pageantry, dr. Mardel is also a published author. One of her novels, “Me Versus High Heels”, became a best-selling teen novel and was later adapted into both a feature film and a television series, making her one of the youngest screenwriters in Indonesia at the time. More recently, she released a children’s book titled “Mika & Maka: Berani ke Dokter” (Mika & Maka: Brave Enough to Visit the Doctor) in January 2026. The book serves as an educational tool to help Indonesian children overcome fear and negative stereotypes about doctors.
Her writing talent and medical expertise have also led her to work in the creative industry as a Medical Consultant for scriptwriting and production. She contributed to the series “Geez & Ann,” produced by Multivision Plus; the film “Racun Sangga,” produced by Soraya Intercine Films; and several other projects currently in pre-production.
Professionally, dr. Mardel has been involved in the Medical VVIP Team during the 2023 ASEAN Summit, collaborating with the Indonesian State Secretariat. She also served on the medical team supporting Pope Francis’ Apostolic Visit to Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta in 2024. Her ability to excel across both medical and non-medical fields is rooted in the strong foundation she developed during her studies at UNDIP.
Beyond academic excellence, the dynamic environment at FK UNDIP provided opportunities to cultivate leadership, public communication skills, and effective time management through involvement in organizations and medical events. These experiences also enabled her to build a broad and solid professional network that has supported her career and collaborations.
“My education in the Neurology Residency Program at the Faculty of Medicine, UNDIP, shaped me into a resilient, adaptive, and versatile individual. The rigorous academic process and high clinical standards trained me to remain calm, manage my time effectively, take responsibility, and find solutions in dynamic situations. These qualities have been invaluable not only in medicine but also in competitions and my efforts to contribute to health communication and public education,” she explained.
Currently, while working as a neurologist at Siloam Hospital and Eka Hospital Jakarta, dr. Mardel is pursuing a Master’s degree in Communication at the London School of Public Relations (LSPR) in Jakarta. She is also actively involved in the Indonesian Neurologists Association (PERDOSNI), particularly in communication, social media, and public education initiatives. In addition, she continues to develop her skills as a host, speaker, and public speaking trainer in collaboration with various organizations.
The success of dr. Maria Ardelia Purwaningrum, Sp.N. stands as clear evidence of the Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Diponegoro’s commitment to delivering comprehensive medical education. FK UNDIP not only equips its students with excellence in medical science but also supports the development of communication, leadership, and humanistic talents. This holistic approach enables its graduates to become adaptive leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to society at both national and international levels.
(Public Communication / UNDIP / FK Public Relations)
Source: Official Website of the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro