Agum Gumelar Recalls Ryamizard Ryacudu as Stern yet Compassionate General

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Retired General Agum Gumelar, former Defence Minister, recalled former Defence Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu as a stern yet compassionate leader despite his imposing appearance.

‘A firm officer, a senior officer with a firm stance, yes. Firm but compassionate. Even though his face looks stern, he’s compassionate,’ Agum said after paying respects at the Ministry of Defence (Kemhan) RI office in Central Jakarta on Monday, 1 June 2026.

Ryamizard served as Defence Minister during the first term of Indonesia’s seventh president, Joko Widodo.

‘He was firm and measured. That’s my impression. He was a highly respected senior figure,’ he added.

Agum admitted he had not seen Ryamizard for a long time.

He estimated their last meeting was a few months ago, when Ryamizard was already unwell.

‘Such a long time ago, how many months back when he was already unwell,’ he said.

‘Let us pray he is accepted by the Almighty,’ he added.

Ryamizard Ryacudu died at the age of 76 at RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Hospital in Jakarta on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at 14:03 WIB.

Born in Palembang, South Sumatra on 12 April 1950, Ryamizard graduated from the Military Academy (Akmil) in 1974 with the infantry branch.

Throughout his life, Ryamizard dedicated himself to serving the nation through various strategic assignments within the military and government, marked by unwavering loyalty, dedication, and a strong spirit of service.

The pinnacle of Ryamizard’s military service came when he was appointed Army Chief of Staff (KSAD) from 2002 to 2005.

Under his leadership, the Army strengthened professionalism, discipline, and readiness to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The four-star retired general then served as Defence Minister during President Joko Widodo’s first term from 2014 to 2019.

The Army prayed that Ryamizard would be granted a place with God, forgiven for all his mistakes and sins, and that his family be given strength, patience, and acceptance in facing this tragedy.