Ibas Remembers Ryamizard: The 'Grass General' Who Continuously Evolved

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), Deputy Speaker of the MPR and Chairman of the Democratic Party’s faction in the DPR, attended the funeral of former Defence Minister General (retired) Ryamizard Ryacudu at Kalibata National Heroes’ Cemetery in South Jakarta. Ibas recalled Ryamizard’s reference to the ‘Grass General’ as a general who continuously evolves, stating that the TNI should have equal opportunities for good positions not only within the military but also in other fields.

‘I also remember Mr Ryamizard on various occasions, although he did not explicitly state that the ’Grass General’ is a general who continuously evolves, that every TNI member has equal opportunity to secure good positions not only within the TNI but also in other fields,’ Ibas said at Kalibata, South Jakarta, on Monday (1 June 2026).

Ibas also recalled Ryamizard’s commitment to upholding esprit de corps. He noted Ryamizard’s efforts to modernise and improve the welfare of the TNI.

‘But I believe what has been done so far also shares the same commitment as our TNI: upholding esprit de corps, continuously striving to make the TNI more modern, prosperous, and professional, while serving the people,’ he said.

Ibas conveyed condolences on behalf of former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), praying for strength for the family.

‘We express our condolences on behalf of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and the wider family for the passing of Mr Ryamizard Ryacudu,’ Ibas said. ‘I also pray for strength, resilience, and patience for the family, particularly Mrs Nora and the children, and we collectively hope for Ryamizard Ryacudu’s peaceful rest in a glorious and beautiful heaven,’ he added.

Furthermore, Ibas stated that SBY knew Ryamizard better than he did. He expressed hope that Ryamizard’s legacy would be carried on by TNI personnel.

‘We also hope his thoughts, commitments, patriotism, and spirit of serving the nation while staying close to the people will continue among TNI-Polri members, especially the broader family and friends,’ he said.

Ryamizard Ryacudu passed away at 76 on Sunday (31 May 2026) afternoon while receiving treatment at the Army Central Hospital (RSPAD) Gatot Soebroto in Jakarta. He concluded his military career as Chief of Staff of the Army (KSAD) during President Megawati Soekarnoputri’s term. Under President Joko Widodo’s first administration, he served as Defence Minister. When introducing him, Jokowi described Ryamizard as a military figure with democratic and visionary thinking.