Pak Harto was known as a hardworking, disciplined, and meticulous person. He had a strong memory, neat handwriting, and was skilled with numbers. He was also an avid reader and encouraged people to study science and technology, even abroad. Despite not being educated abroad himself, he valued education greatly. Pak Harto rarely showed anger and would often be silent when upset. He had a daily routine of waking up early, arriving at the office promptly at 8:00 am, and returning home for lunch at 1:00 pm. In the afternoons, he would often play golf and receive guests in the evenings.
As his son-in-law, I had the privilege of observing his daily life and routines. His small study was always cluttered with folders that he diligently read and signed each night. He had a photographic memory and could recall detailed experiences from his time in the military. His deep understanding of Javanese philosophy and history shaped his leadership style, and he often shared ancient teachings with those around him.
I once received three important pieces of advice from Pak Harto before embarking on a military operation in East Timor. Despite expecting financial assistance, he instead imparted the wisdom of “Ojo lali, ojo dumeh, ojo ngoyo” to me. This advice proved invaluable during the mission, as I reflected on the deep meaning behind his words.
Pak Harto’s experiences as a military commander and leader in various operations shaped his leadership style and the valuable advice he shared with those around him. His dedication to his work, attention to detail, and commitment to education continue to inspire those who knew him.
