Pak Harto was a hard-working, disciplined, and meticulous person. I had the opportunity to witness his daily routine. He would wake up early in the morning and arrive at the office promptly at 08:00 am. Known for his neat handwriting and strong memory, he was also proficient with numbers and an avid reader. Pak Harto encouraged people to pursue studies in science and technology, even abroad, despite not having been educated overseas himself. He was always smiling and rarely showed anger, preferring to remain silent when upset.
I became Pak Harto’s son-in-law in 1983, after serving as a captain in the military and participating in operations in East Timor. During my time as a soldier, I had the opportunity to work closely with Infantry Major Yunus Yosfiah and Infantry Colonel R.K. Sembiring Meliala, among others.
Pak Harto’s daily schedule was structured, with time allocated for work, lunch, golf, and receiving guests. Despite his busy schedule, he would spend late nights working on paperwork, demonstrating his strong work ethic and attention to detail. His small study was filled with folders and letters that he would diligently read and sign each night.
A notable trait of Pak Harto was his impeccable memory and passion for sharing knowledge. He would often recount his experiences in forming and training military units, offering practical advice and techniques. His deep understanding of Javanese philosophy and history also shaped his leadership style. He often referenced ancient teachings in his leadership approach, emphasizing the importance of wisdom passed down through generations.
During one occasion before a military operation in East Timor, Pak Harto offered me three pieces of advice: “Ojo lali, ojo dumeh, ojo ngoyo.” These words, steeped in Javanese philosophy, were a reminder to stay focused and disciplined. Despite my initial surprise at not receiving financial assistance, I came to appreciate the wisdom behind Pak Harto’s advice, rooted in his extensive combat experience and leadership background.
Overall, Pak Harto’s legacy as a hard-working, disciplined, and wise leader continues to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. His dedication to his work, memory, and leadership style based on Javanese philosophy have left a lasting impact on those who crossed paths with him.
