Gus Dur needs 'total rest' to speed up his recovery

JAKARTA (JP): Abdurrahman Wahid's health is steadily improving but he will need complete rest to hasten his recovery, an official of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Moslem organization said here yesterday.

"He needs total rest to speed up his recovery," Arifin Junaidi, NU's deputy secretary-general told reporters.

Arifin said that during Abdurrahman's fourth day at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital his condition had significantly improved.

"This morning he even tried to sit up, but his relatives quickly stopped him," Arifin explained.

Arifin said Abudrrahman was now able to speak clearly and his capability to acknowledge time and place were getting better.

"He's been able to acknowledge people and control body movements."

However, Arifin said the 57-year-old NU chairman would remain under close observation in the intensive care ward.

Arifin said Abdurrahman's family members yesterday wished to convey their gratitude at the outpouring of public support.

More than a thousand people have visited Abdurrahman, commonly referred to as Gus Dur. The display of support has prompted his family to appeal to the public, including NU members outside Jakarta, not to visit him.

"Without trying to spoil the public's sympathy, we encourage NU members to stay at home and pray for Gus Dur (instead of coming to Jakarta)," Arifin said, adding that hospital rules do not allow other than the next of kin to enter Abdurrahman's room.

Arifin also revealed that several embassies have offered their medical assistance to Abdurrahman, including the United States and Japan.

Abdurrahman underwent surgery at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in Central Jakarta after suffering a stroke Monday evening. He was rushed to the hospital after becoming unconscious in the bathroom at NU headquarters. (10)