Pak Harto was known as a hard-working, disciplined, and meticulous person. He had a routine of waking up early every morning and arriving at the office promptly at 08:00 am. His neat handwriting, strong memory, and proficiency with numbers were some of his distinctive qualities. He was also an avid reader and encouraged people to study science and technology, even abroad. Despite rarely showing anger, when he did, he would remain silent and avoid speaking to angry individuals.
In addition to his work ethic, Pak Harto was deeply knowledgeable about Javanese philosophy and Indonesian history, as he had received his education in Indonesia. He often incorporated ancient teachings and Javanese philosophy into his leadership style. One of his most notable teachings was “ojo dumeh, ojo lali, ojo ngoyo, ojo adigang, adigung, adiguna,” which emphasized the importance of not forgetting past lessons and always being cautious and wise in decision-making.
Pak Harto’s dedication to his work was evident in his nightly routine of reading and signing numerous documents, even working until the early hours of the morning. Despite his busy schedule and responsibilities as President, he still managed to maintain a strong memory of his military experiences and share valuable lessons with others. One such occasion was when he provided advice to a battalion commander before a mission, emphasizing the importance of remembering key principles in combat operations.
Overall, Pak Harto’s legacy as a hard-working and disciplined leader who valued education, history, and wisdom continues to inspire those who knew him. His commitment to his work and his ability to incorporate traditional teachings into modern leadership practices serve as a testament to his enduring influence in Indonesian society.
