Professor Masyhuri from UGM’s Faculty of Agriculture (Agriculture UGM) has officially retired at the age of 70 after dedicating approximately 45 years to teaching agricultural socio-economics.
Throughout his career, Professor Masyhuri actively conducted strategic research, particularly on food security.
The president honored him with the Adhikarya Pangan Nusantara Award for his contributions to national food security research.
However, despite his accomplishments, there is still one unresolved concern.
“I am still saddened because I have not yet found a concept that truly ensures farmers’ welfare,” he said during his retirement gathering, held warmly and modestly on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, at the Harjono Danoesastro Auditorium, Agriculture UGM.
He emphasized that farmers’ welfare must be the top priority in agricultural policies, including ensuring adequate land ownership.
He also highlighted the importance of technological innovation in agriculture, such as utilizing seawater for cultivation without reducing land productivity.
“Indonesia must develop seawater irrigation technology so that dry and barren land can still be cultivated, rather than relying solely on freshwater,” he added.
Professor Masyhuri is known as a smart and dedicated academic who has worked for over 45 years in agricultural economics.
Reflecting on his life journey, he recounted the challenges he faced, from being bullied in elementary school to sacrificing his choice of high school for his younger sibling.
Each challenge, he said, only strengthened him.
He also shared the unique story behind his decision to join Agriculture UGM.
“I was actually accepted into UGM’s Geodesy and Civil Engineering programs, but my father couldn’t afford to buy a drafting table. So, I steered toward agriculture, which was my third choice. It turned out to be the path meant for me,” he recalled.
The retirement gathering, attended by colleagues, students, and alumni from various universities, including Universitas Pembangunan Nasional (UPN), Institut Pertanian (INSTIPER), and other universities, was a memorable tribute to his long academic journey.
Dean of Agriculture UGM, Dr. Jaka Widada, deeply appreciated Professor Masyhuri’s dedication to education. He noted that Professor Masyhuri was a teacher and a mentor to many generations of agricultural economics experts in Indonesia.
“He has produced many graduates who are now making significant contributions nationwide. His character is a role model for all of us, consistent in dedication and service,” he said.
For students and colleagues, Professor Masyhuri was known for his vast knowledge and his passion for sharing it.
His teaching style was distinctive. He brought thick textbooks to class, delivered material enthusiastically, and always posed thought-provoking questions.
“Initially, he seemed strict and quiet, but during mentoring sessions, he turned out to be very friendly and humorous. He was critical in discussions, highly committed to developing the institution, and always embedded valuable lessons in every case study,” recalled a former student.
A colleague and representative of the Department of Agricultural Socio-Economics, Professor Dwidjono Hadi Susanto, added that Professor Masyhuri was a remarkably diligent academic.
His journey from undergraduate to doctorate was a testament to his hard work and determination.
“He pursued his education at the University of the Philippines at Los Baños directly to a Ph.D. program, skipping the master’s level, which is very rare. He also received a World Bank scholarship and has won eight prestigious academic awards, including from the United States,” he said.
Despite his impressive achievements, Professor Masyhuri’s focus on academics led him to delay personal matters.
“He was so focused that he forgot to marry. It wasn’t until he nearly completed his Ph.D. that he was asked to return home to be matched with a partner,” Professor Susanto jokes, prompting laughter from the audience.
At the end of the event, attendees offered prayers and best wishes for the professor to enjoy his retirement with happiness, health, and peace.
“His legacy of kindness and contribution will always live on in our hearts,” said one alumnus.
That day, Professor Masyhuri officially retired, but his legacy in Indonesian academics and agriculture will continue to thrive. His dedication, knowledge, and spirit will inspire future generations.
Author: Bolivia
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang