A somber atmosphere enveloped the Universitas Gadjah Mada community as news of a loss from the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA UGM) circulated. One of its senior professors, Professor Soeparna Darmawidjaja, passed away on Thursday (Dec. 25) at the age of 87. The late professor was laid to rest at the UGM Cemetery on Friday (Dec. 26), following a final tribute from the UGM academic community at the Balairung.
The dedication and lifelong service of Professor Darmawidjaja over decades in advancing the field of mathematics are remembered as an enduring example for future generations.
Vice Dean for Finance, Assets, and Human Resources of FMIPA UGM, Dr. Reza M. I. Pulungan, in delivering the late professor’s biography, conveyed that he was an educator with a profound commitment to the development of mathematics, particularly in the field of analysis.
According to Dr. Pulungan, the late professor was not only an academic but also a leader who actively contributed to FMIPA UGM’s growth through the various strategic positions he held.
“He was a prominent figure in mathematics who mentored many outstanding students and made significant contributions to the advancement of mathematics in Indonesia,” he added.
Professor Darmawidjaja was born in Kuala Lumpur on Jan. 10, 1938. He completed his primary and secondary education in Indonesia before pursuing higher education and earning his doctoral degree in 1986.
He attained his highest academic rank, that of professor of mathematics, at FMIPA UGM in 1991. Throughout his career, he also served as head of the Department of Mathematics and was actively involved in professional organizations, including serving as president of the Indonesian Mathematical Society.
Deep condolences were also expressed by the secretary of the UGM Board of Professors, Professor Wahyudi Kumorotomo, representing the university leadership and the broader academic community. He remembered the late professor as a diligent scholar with a serious dedication to his field.
“This is reflected in the extensive body of scientific publications he produced, both in the form of books and journal articles,” he said.
Beyond his academic legacy, Professor Kumorotomo recalled the late professor as a warm and humble individual in everyday life.
“In daily interactions, he was a courteous, friendly colleague who always made others feel at ease. He was also fond of playing badminton in his time,” he remarked.
He invited all those present to offer prayers for the late professor, wishing him eternal peace.
“Let us accompany him to his final resting place with prayers, and may Allah SWT forgive his shortcomings, multiply his good deeds, and grant him the most honorable and peaceful place,” he concluded.
Author/Photographer: Hanifah
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya