Dr Sardjito's House Put Up for Sale, UGM Seeks to Preserve Academic Interests

The historic residence of national hero Prof. Dr. M. Sardjito is reportedly being offered for sale, with Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) currently attempting to acquire it. The university is seeking to repurpose the house for academic and social activities to recognise and preserve its historical value, an effort being undertaken in collaboration with KAGAMA (UGM Alumni Association), according to UGM Rector Prof. Ova Emilia.

While the university has not yet detailed the specific plans for the property or confirmed a definitive purchase, the institution maintains its respect for the historical legacy of its founders. Simultaneously, the university respects the rights and decisions of the family as the legal owners of the property.

The historic ‘jengki-style’ house, located on Jalan Cik Di Tiro, Terban, Gondokusuman, Yogyakarta, belonged to Prof. Dr. M. Sardjito, a figure widely known as the namesake of a major hospital. He served as the first rector of UGM from 1949 to 1961 and was also the third rector of Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) between 1963 and 1970.

Since his tenure began in 1949, Sardjito resided in the house, which is currently maintained by Budhi Santoso, a relative of the Sardjito family. Following rumours on social media regarding the sale, Mr Santoso confirmed that the property is indeed on the market. He noted that the decision to sell was proposed because the house is no longer being properly maintained, a move agreed upon by the heirs, Alita and Dyani Poedjioetomo.

Mr Santoso stated that he does not intend to use brokers or social media to sell the property, as he wishes for it to be acquired by a suitable party. He has personally offered the house to institutions such as UGM and UII to ensure its preservation, expressing a desire to prevent the historic site from being converted into a commercial cafe.