YOGYAKARTA – Universitas Gadjah Mada, will confer honoris causa doctorate in the field of humanitarian to Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X and HB IX Award to Goenawan Mohamad in the field of culture. According to the plan, both awards will be given simultaneously at the peak of the 62nd Anniversary of UGM on Monday (19/12).
Head of UGM Public Relations and Protocol, Suryo Baskoro, said that the granting of HC doctor to Sri Sultan HB X has been proposed since three years ago based on many consideration, namely, first, Sri Sultan HB X has cultural insight that is beneficial to humanity, sustainable development, and Indonesian nationality. Secondly, Sri Sultan HB X has been able to bridge various groups in critical situations. "Third is his community management practice that provides space for marginalized groups," Suryo said to reporters on Tuesday (13/12).
He added that another consideration is that Sultan is capable to blend Indonesian values to Yogyakarta through culture. In addition, the Sultan is successful in the management of culture-based environment, initiating the restoration of Indonesia in various culture-based fields. "It includes his support for education at UGM and private universities. He is also present in international cooperations, making great example in managing conflicts," he said.
His promoter is UGM Rector, Prof. Ir. Sudjarwadi, M. Eng., Ph.D., meanwhile, the co-promoters are Prof. Dr. dr. Sutaryo, SP.A (K) and Prof. Dr. Djoko Suryo. UGM Executive Secretary, Drs. Djoko Moerdiyanto, M.A., said in addition to the granting of HC title during UGM Anniversary ceremony, there will be the granting of HB IX Award which this year goes to culturalist Goenawan Mohamad. "He has been elected for this award after tight selection," he said.
GM (Goenawan Mohamad’s initials) is selected through community proposals by UGM Council of Professors. The HB IX Award is not necessarily granted every year, but based on results of consideration and assessment of the Council on nominees. "Typically, there is more than proposal to the Council. All is deliberated by the Council. GM has certainly met the criteria desired by UGM," he added.
Skipping mentioning how many names nominated to receive the award, Djoko explained that GM had the highest assessment score, 384.17. "As a writer and journalist, there is no doubt about his integrity as an independent journalist," he said. Djoko said, after receiving the award in the evening, GM will read his cultural oration in Yogyakarta Palace.
Suryo mentioned, Sri Sultan HB X is the 21st figure who received HC title from UGM. Similar title was first given to President Sukarno in 1951; subsequently the recipients were Mohamad Hatta, the King of Thailand, Bhumibol Adulyedey, President of Cambodia, Norodhom Sihanoek, Sultan Hasanal Bolkiah of Brunei, and a poet, WS Rendra. Meanwhile, for HB IX Award, Goenawan is the 20th figure to receive this prestigious award.