The UGM Faculty of Biology (Biology UGM) is again in mourning. One of its distinguished professors, Professor Agnes Endang Sutariningsih Soetarto, passed away on Wednesday (Jun. 5) at approximately 9:10 PM.
UGM paid a final tribute on Thursday (Jun. 6) afternoon at Balairung before the late professor was laid to rest at the UGM Cemetery in Sawitsari.
“We all pray that God Almighty grants the late Professor Soetarto the highest place and that the entire family left behind is given the strength and fortitude to continue her legacy,” said Professor Mochammad Maksum, Chair of the UGM Board of Professors, during the farewell ceremony on Thursday (Jun. 6).
Professor Maksum stated that the late Professor Soetarto was a senior lecturer in microbiology at Biology UGM. In her inaugural lecture delivered 24 years ago, she emphasized the role of microbiology and environmental biology in developing the national industry.
“Today, it has truly become a reality that we often neglect these matters, and despite being framed with various reminders, there are now terms such as green industry, green technology, sustainable environment, and so on,” she said.
In her speech, Professor Soetarto highlighted the importance of focusing on microbiology and environmental biotechnology. This is essential to meet current needs, particularly those related to agro-industries.
Agro-industries are inseparable from microbiology and environmental biotechnology. Internally, microbiology and industrial biotechnology are also closely related, aligning with the late professor’s field of expertise.
The late Professor Soetarto was known for her academic dedication and capability. Her credibility was evident from her tenure as Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at Biology UGM.
“Public trust also saw her serving as the Chair of Biology UGM Senate until 2017. Let us accompany the late Professor Soetarto to her final resting place, praying that God Almighty forgives her sins, multiplies her good deeds, and grants her peace and the highest place by His side,” he concluded.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Photographer: Donnie