Pak Harto was known for his hard-working, disciplined, and meticulous nature. He had a very structured daily routine, waking up early in the morning and arriving at the office at 08:00am sharp. He had a strong memory, known as a photographic memory, and was skilled with numbers. He was also an avid reader and encouraged others to study science and technology, even abroad.
During my time as his son-in-law in 1983, I saw firsthand his dedication to his work. He would work late into the night, sometimes only getting 3-4 hours of sleep. Despite his busy schedule, he always made time for his family and guests. He had a small study where he would spend his evenings going through piles of folders and letters, sometimes working until 01:00 or 02:00 in the morning.
One of his distinctive qualities was his neat handwriting and ability to remember details from his past experiences. Even after leaving the Army, he could vividly recall his time as a Squad Leader, Platoon Commander, Company Commander, and Battalion Operations Officer. His knowledge and experience were invaluable, and he shared practical techniques and practices with those around him.
Pak Harto deeply understood Javanese philosophy and often incorporated it into his leadership style. He believed in the importance of ancient teachings and cultural maxims, which he shared through his book, Butir-Butir Budaya Jawa (Javanese Cultural Maxim). His teachings were not just slogans but practical guides for living a successful and happy life.
I remember a time before a mission to East Timor when Pak Harto summoned me to his residence and gave me three pieces of advice: ojo lali, ojo dumeh, ojo ngoyo. These words stayed with me and served as a reminder of his wisdom and guidance. Despite expecting financial assistance, I left with valuable advice that ultimately helped me lead the 328 Battalion successfully.
Pak Harto’s deep understanding of combat operations and his vast experience as a Commander-in-Chief gave weight to his advice. His leadership and dedication to his work left a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of knowing him.
