WWF-Indonesia has once again lost one of its role models. The conservationist who is also a member of the WWF-Indonesia Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Didin Sastrapradja passed away at the age of 78, on Wednesday, July 28, 2010, at 10:00 am.
The Biodiversity and Plantation expert joined WWF-Indonesia's Board of Trustees since July 1998. "WWF and the Indonesian nation are truly blessed.
"WWF and the nation of Indonesia are deeply saddened by his passing as a parent, teacher, and role model for all of us. His attention, thoughts and dedication for the advancement of WWF and the world of conservation in Indonesia become memories and enthusiasm for us as a big family of WWF. Our next task is to continue his ideals and spirit," said WWF-Indonesia Board member Rizal Malik.
Didin S. Sastrapradja, born in Garut in 1932, was an Adjunct Professor at the University of Indonesia since 1974 and a Member of the House of Representatives (DPR/MPR-RI) FPG 1992-1997. The deceased had also served as Deputy Chairman for Natural Sciences of the PTO (1978-1981). Assistant Minister of State for Research and Technology (1981-1986), and Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) in 1986-1992. He completed his undergraduate education at the Bogor Agricultural Academy (1958) and earned his Doctorate (Ph.D) in Botany from the University of Hawaii, USA (1965).
Prof. Didin Sastrapradja has produced more than 70 scientific and semi-scientific writings on biology, natural science and science and technology. He received various awards, including: Bintang Jasa Pembangunan, Bintang Jasa Utama, Officer In De van Oranye Nassau from the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (1972), Officer In The Leopoldsorde from the Government of the Kingdom of Belgium (1975), Satya Lencana Manggala (1978), Orde Van de Gouden Ark from the Prince of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (1982) and Bintang Jasa Nararya (1982).
Goodbye to our role model, goodbye Mr. Didin Sastrapardaja...
Sincere prayers from the big family of WWF-Indonesia always accompany your every step...
May you have the best place in God's side...