As we go through the motions of education, we encounter many instructors who share their knowledge of the world with us. Some teachers inspire us beyond the walls of classrooms, and Professor Yongky Safanayong was one of those teachers. The design professor passed away this morning after having been ill for the past months, and as news of his passing spread, his many students have offer words of remembrance dedicated to him.

Born on the 26th of August 1950, Professor Safanayong spent the majority of his life in Jakarta and graduated from the Arts Department of Trisakti University in 1980, before teaching Trisakti University, and Pelita Harapan University. His relationship with students is that of dedication and affection, not only did he teach the necessary tools of the trade, and like any good teacher offered them a perspective, but he also formed personal bonds with students – bestowing knowledge inside and outside the classroom. It is no surprise that Professor Safanayong is the favorite of many students, including many in Whiteboard Journal, Studio1212, and Footurama who have come and gone.

In an interview we did with the professor, we found that he considered design to be a ‘spiritual’ affair, a God-given artform that teaches us to be aware and understand our surroundings. In that same interview, he also equated teaching to piety, saying that it was a calling for him to teach and that “…if we have the knowledge to share, we should share.” When we asked him a general life question about how to cope with the struggles one faces in life, he replied “Everything is a challenge. I truly believe with optimism we can overcome anything. Never back down when challenges arise.” and then ends his answer with “We shouldn’t look for stability. We must keep on going and growing until the day we die.”

His knowledge, dedication, positive outlook, and kindness are his legacy, and one that we can all take example of.

Rest In Peace Professor Yongky Safanayong.