Ibas expresses condolences over the passing of Juwono Sudarsono

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Speaker of the MPR RI and Chairman of the Democratic Party Faction in the DPR RI, Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), has expressed deep condolences over the passing of former Defence Minister Prof. Juwono Sudarsono. For Ibas, Juwono was not merely a state official but a great intellectual, teacher of the nation, and true technocrat who dedicated his entire life to Indonesia’s advancement across generations of leadership. “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Today, Indonesia mourns. We have lost one of the nation’s finest sons, a humble sage of international relations and defence studies. On behalf of myself, my family, and the Democratic Party Faction, I extend the deepest condolences to the bereaved family,” Ibas stated in a written remark in Jakarta on Sunday. Ibas recalled Juwono as a unique figure trusted by various eras of national leadership, from President Soeharto to the sixth President of the Republic of Indonesia, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY). “He was a figure capable of bridging various political dynamics with extraordinary professionalism and integrity. His contributions were immense in laying the foundation for a modern national defence while upholding democratic values,” he said. He also highlighted the multifaceted role of the late Juwono, who served as Minister of Education and Culture during President Habibie’s tenure and as Minister of State for the Environment. “He was a true example of complete public service. Wherever he was placed, he always upheld the highest moral and intellectual standards.” According to Ibas, Prof. Juwono’s intellectual legacy will live on through thousands of his students and scholarly works. “The series of awards he received, from the Bintang Mahaputera Adipradana to the most recent Bintang Mahaputera Adipurna from President Prabowo Subianto in August 2025, are tangible proof that the state greatly values the sincerity of his dedication. He taught us that power is a trust to educate and serve,” Ibas emphasised. In closing his statement, Ibas urged the public to pray for the late Juwono to attain the best place beside the Almighty God. “Farewell, Prof. Juwono Sudarsono. Thank you for all the guidance, dedication, and example you have given to this nation. May all his deeds and worship be accepted by Allah SWT, and may the bereaved family be granted strength and fortitude,” Ibas remarked.