A Celebration of Njie: A Life of Resilience, Curiosity, and Creativity
On this day, I would like to celebrate not just a very good friend of mine, but a force of nature — Puji (Njie Astuti), Flowy, or as she aptly calls herself, Mamabuy (from Mama Bulu, literally, Fur Aka Cat Mother). A woman who embraces life with an unmatched curiosity, an unshakable will, and a heart as warm as the fur of the many cats she adores. Today, as she turns 42, I want the world to know her story, the trials she’s faced, the lessons she’s learned, and the creativity that defines her existence.
Njie’s journey is one of perseverance. She started from humble beginnings, working at Pasar Darurat in Kapuk Muara, living in a tiny 120x180 cm room, surviving on just IDR 40,000 a week. From there, she moved to Batam, where she glimpsed the nightlife and the realities of the world, but she always remained steadfast in her path.
She worked tirelessly, trying her hand at different industries — from furniture sales to shoe factories, from cashiering to translation — learning with each step, absorbing knowledge like the avid reader she has always been. Books have been her lifelong companions, fueling her dreams and sharpening her mind. She didn’t just read for pleasure; she devoured words, eventually becoming fluent in English simply because she willed it so.
In 2014, she finally pursued higher education, studying English Literature at Pamulang University. She directed a college play, participated in academic seminars, and deepened her understanding of language and translation. Her passion for words led her to work at Indolingo, then PT Imani Prima, and eventually OWLingua, where she honed her skills as an editor, proofreader, subtitling QC, and even a project manager. But beyond career achievements, she was always in pursuit of something more — something that allowed her to express her creativity in her own way.
Now, Njie has found joy in crafting. With her talented hands, she transforms fuzzy wires into beautiful flowers, keychains, turtles (her bestseller!), headbands, and so much more. Each creation is a reflection of her boundless imagination, her delicate artistry, and the love she pours into everything she does.
She’s a green thumb, a lover of plants, with a deep appreciation for nature. Green, the color of life, growth, and renewal, suits her perfectly — because that’s what she does. She grows. She reinvents. She flourishes.
Njie’s life has never been easy, but she has never let circumstances define her. She is resilience in motion, a woman who never backs down, who continues to evolve, and who faces the world on her own terms. She is a light to those lucky enough to know her, a friend whose kindness, wisdom, and humor bring warmth to the coldest days.
Through all of life’s ups and downs, Njie’s cats have been her steadfast companions. Nine of them, just like her favorite number, each with their own quirks and personalities: Ubik (Rubicon) the Prankster, Egay (Marie Regal) the Grump, Bois (Valar Morghulis) the Bomber, Kiyong (Cleopatra) the Feisty Princess, Ocil/Mumuy (Miracle) the Youngest, Cimi (Sashimi) the Prideful Queen, Item the Black Cat, Abu the Black Sheep, and Woku the Orange. These playful, prank-loving, nonchalant yet lovable little beasts give her structure, purpose, and joy. They keep her spirit alive, reminding her to push forward, to find ways to care for them, and in return, they grace her life with their presence.
As Douglas Adams famously wrote, 42 is the answer to life, the universe, and everything. On this milestone birthday, may this year bring Njie the answers she seeks, the adventures she craves, and the love she so freely gives to others.
Happy 42nd birthday, Njie. May this year bring you even more creativity, joy, and success. I am endlessly grateful for your companionship, and I hope the world sees you for the extraordinary person that you are. Here’s to you, to your dreams, and to the many beautiful creations yet to come! 🍻
Dari Sabang sampai Merauke, your words, your art, and your presence touch hearts. And mine is forever grateful.
