Do not forget General Yusuf

From Forum Keadilan

The article about Lt. Gen. Achmad Kemal Idris in Forum recently was quite interesting, especially the information about his recently published biography. The life story of one of the best sons of the nation should be read especially by those born after 1965. And being the biography of one of the founders of the New Order, the book should have a special color to enhance its value.

However, it seems that another retired general, M. Yusuf, is almost forgotten despite his important role in connection with Supersemar, a historical letter issued during the turbulent period of transfer of power from former president Sukarno to Gen. Soeharto. The life of this general, who graduated from an infantry course in Georgia, the United States, should also be compiled in a biography. Surely, this man who served as trade and industry minister (1964-1968) and as chairman of the Supreme Audit Agency (1983-1993) must have something valuable to say for the people. The more so, when we realize he also once served as minister of defense and Army chief (1978-1983).

In recent years, he has been very active in religious affairs, being the founding father of the Al Markas Al Islam Mosque in Ujungpandang, the largest Islamic Center in eastern Indonesia.

However, it may not be easy to persuade the general who holds the Mahaputra Adiprana medal to have his biography written. The writers of his biography would, at least, have to share the general's perceptions and the faith in the cause for which he fought.

G. Suhairy

Pekanbaru 28001