By: Prabowo Subianto [taken from the Book: Military Leadership Notes from Experience Chapter I: Exemplary Leaders of The Indonesian Armed Forces]
There is a saying that a true teacher should take pride in seeing his student surpass him. A true teacher will make sure that his students and his men achieve greater success than himself. A true teacher will not hesitate to guide his students to reach their full potential and attain the highest rank for the benefit of the nation and the country.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL TNI (RET.) KEMAL IDRIS
When I returned to Indonesia from Europe at the age of 17, Pak Kemal Idris was already a well-known TNI figure. He was a key figure during the New Order regime under President Suharto’s administration.
Pak Kemal Idris was a close friend of my late uncle Subianto, who was a brave man that died in the Battle of Lengkong. Upon meeting me, Pak Kemal Idris shared stories of my uncle and said that if he were alive, he would have achieved great heights in the military. Pak Kemal Idris was known for his patriotism, bravery, and integrity. His battalion was the first to enter the capital after Indonesia gained sovereignty from the Dutch.
Pak Kemal Idris played a crucial role in supporting President Suharto during the early years of his administration. He later became the Chief of Army Strategic Reserves Command (Pangkostrad) after President Suharto’s promotion.
Despite his admirable qualities, Pak Kemal Idris had his flaws. He was known to be emotional and at times made hasty decisions without fully understanding the situation. However, his dedication to the nation and his leadership qualities left a lasting impact on those around him.
LIEUTENANT GENERAL TNI (RET.) HARTONO REKSO DHARSONO
Pak Ton, as he was fondly known, was a prominent figure during the New Order era. He was known for his courage to challenge authoritarianism and push for a more democratic Indonesia. Despite facing criticism and being briefly imprisoned, Pak Ton stood firm in his beliefs.
His popularity among the people, students, and soldiers was attributed to his heroism and advocacy for democracy. He was revered as a role model by the youth in West Java and Jakarta.
Pak Ton, along with Pak Kemal Idris, shared a close relationship with my family. He served as a Defence Attaché in London and had a distinguished career in the TNI. His unwavering commitment to democracy and his advocacy for the underprivileged set him apart as a leader.
MARINE COLONEL TNI (RET.) AZWAR SYAM
Pak Azwar Syam, a commanding figure at the Indonesian Armed Forces Academy, played a pivotal role in shaping the author’s character. His emphasis on neatness and assertiveness left a lasting impression on those under his command.
Despite his strict disciplinary methods, Pak Azwar Syam cared deeply for his subordinates and went to great lengths to ensure their success. His dedication as a leader and teacher extended beyond the battlefield, influencing the author’s political career and shaping his leadership style.
In conclusion, these exemplary leaders of the Indonesian Armed Forces, Kemal Idris, Hartono Rekso Dharsono, and Azwar Syam, have left a profound impact on the author and those under their command. Their dedication to the nation, leadership qualities, and commitment to guiding the next generation reflect their unwavering patriotism and selflessness. As true teachers and commanders, they have inspired others to surpass them for the greater good of the nation and country.
