Ibas recalls Ryamizard Ryacudu's 'Jenderal Rumput' remarks
Jakarta, VIVA – Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian MPR Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) recalled the late former Defence Minister General Ryamizard Ryacudu’s remark about ‘jenderal rumput’, meaning continuous progress.
Meeting after Ryamizard’s funeral at the National Heroes Cemetery in Kalibata, Jakarta, on Monday, Ibas said the deceased frequently mentioned this phrase on various occasions.
“I remember General Ryamizard mentioning on multiple occasions that a ‘jenderal rumput’ is one who is always progressing, that every member of the TNI has equal opportunity to attain good positions, not only within the military but also in other fields,” he stated.
Ibas also conveyed condolences on behalf of former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY). He noted SBY knew Ryamizard closely as they served in the same unit during their military careers.
“SBY knew Ryamizard better, but I believe his efforts demonstrated the same commitment as our TNI: upholding esprit de corps, continuously modernising the military, improving welfare, and maintaining professionalism while serving the people,” he added.
He expressed hope that the deceased’s ideas, commitment, patriotism, and dedication would be carried forward by the next generation.
He also prayed for the bereaved family to be granted strength and patience. “Let us pray for Ryamizard Ryacudu to be granted a place in paradise with dignity and beauty,” he said.
General Ryamizard Ryacudu (retired) passed away at Gatot Soebroto Army Central Hospital in Jakarta on Sunday (31 May) at 2:03 PM WIB after treatment in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit.
Ryamizard was a retired senior TNI Army officer who served as Army Chief of Staff from 2002 to 2005. During President Joko Widodo’s administration, he was appointed Defence Minister from 2014 to 2019.
A military funeral ceremony was held solemnly on Monday afternoon, led by Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin as the officiating officer.
Before burial, the late general’s coffin was laid in state at the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Hall of the Ministry of Defence building in Jakarta on Monday morning, with the ceremony led by Deputy Defence Minister Donny Ermawan.