Seputarkarawang.com - Karawang, The Postgraduate Graduation Procession at Singaperbangsa University Karawang (UNSIKA) at the Syekh Quro Hall, Tuesday (12/5/2026), was full of emotion. In the midst of thousands of graduates, the figures of Reni Ernawati (wife) and Dr. Siti Hamimah (sister) walked slowly up to the podium with puffy eyes. Both of them were present to represent the late H. Emay Ahmad Maehi, S.Ag., S.H., M.Ag., receiving a Master's degree in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) for which he had fought for.The atmosphere suddenly fell silent when the name of the former Chairman of the Karawang KPU was called by the university senate. The physical absence of the deceased on his happy day made the entire hall enveloped in an atmosphere of deep sorrow. The family sobbed uncontrollably when the diplomas and academic awards were handed over. This master's degree is clear evidence of the deceased's dedication to the world of literacy and education in Karawang Regency until the end of his life.Based on his academic history, the deceased had completed his entire study load and was declared to have graduated from the judiciary in January 2026. However, fate decided otherwise. The day after Eid al-Fitr, March 22 2026 to be precise, this figure who was also active as a GP Ansor cadre died. The deceased breathed his last breath just before he could wear the toga he had long dreamed of for his graduation this year.
"It feels very crowded. On the one hand, we are proud that he has achieved his academic goals, but on the other hand, we are incredibly sad because my husband should be the one standing on this podium," said Reni Ernawati in a trembling voice. For him, the diploma is not just paper, but rather a legacy of intellectual struggle that will continue to be remembered by his children and extended family as an example in seeking the highest possible knowledge.During his life, this figure, who was known as a religious and humanist, left a deep impression through his scientific work. The deceased's thesis which raised the theme of Religious Moderation was even successful in winning an award from the Ministry of Religion (Kemenag) Karawang. This research is considered to make an important contribution to religious harmony and tolerance in the West Java region, especially in the homeland of the struggle, Karawang.H. Emay Ahmad Maehi's struggle to obtain a Masters degree in PAI at UNSIKA is now an inspiration for the academic community and the wider community. Even though his body is gone, the academic degree he achieved is a symbol that the spirit of learning knows no age or time limits. The family is committed to continuing to maintain the message of the deceased so that the values of education continue to be alive in everyday life.
