An atmosphere of emotion and warmth filled the Poerbatjaraka Auditorium, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FIB UGM) on Friday, September 11, 2026. More than 200 people—comprising FIB UGM lecturers, conference guests, and undergraduate and master’s students of the Linguistics and Indonesian Language programs—gathered to attend the valedictory speech of Prof. Dr. I Dewa Putu Wijana, S.U., M.A.
This moment marked the final official day of teaching at FIB UGM for Prof. Putu. Born on August 16, 1956, and widely recognized as a leading expert in Pragmatics, Discourse Analysis, and Sociolinguistics, he has served as an educator since February 1983. For 43 years, he dedicated himself to educating generations of students at the faculty.
Beyond a farewell ceremony, the valedictory event was highlighted by the launch of his three latest books: Renik-Renik Linguistik, Linguistik Forensik, and Kumpulan Humor Prof. Putu, the latter being a special tribute from colleagues and students.
Having authored more than 10 books, Prof. Putu used his final stage to convey a meaningful message regarding the importance of writing. For him, writing is the best way to express what is on one’s mind.
“Write, because that is how you become immortal,” Prof. Putu stated, a line he repeatedly emphasized to the audience.
Although the event carried a sad undertone due to the farewell, Prof. Putu’s humorous nature helped lighten the atmosphere. The witty jokes he shared throughout his speech transformed the emotional mood into warm laughter. The event became even more memorable with the screening of a tribute video dedicated to him by fellow lecturers and students.
Before concluding his speech, Prof. Putu closed the farewell with an Arabic proverb to inspire everyone present: “Man jadda wa jada”—whoever strives earnestly will succeed.
[Author: Humas FIB, Zaidan Abdurrahman]
