Jimly Remembers Rachmat Gobel: A Flexible and Approachable Figure

Former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court Jimly Asshiddiqie attended the funeral of politician and businessman Rachmat Gobel, who was buried at the Kalibata Heroes’ Cemetery in Jakarta on Friday afternoon, 10 July 2026. Jimly remembered the NasDem politician as a figure who mingled easily with anyone, regardless of their economic status.

“From the testimony of many people who socialised with him, he was a good man. Wealthy, but his wealth did not stop him from socialising with those who had little. He was close to everyone,” said Jimly after escorting Rachmat to his final resting place at the Kalibata Heroes’ Cemetery in Jakarta.

Jimly also said he felt fortunate to have known Rachmat, who once visited his residence. He judged that Rachmat had a flexible personality and was open in his social interactions. “To describe him, he was an approachable man,” he said.

According to Jimly, Rachmat’s passing felt sudden because he had not known that Rachmat had a history of heart disease. Reflecting on the loss, he reminded everyone to prepare themselves, as death can come at any moment.

He then prayed that Rachmat would be granted the best place at God’s side in recognition of his services in business and politics.

Rachmat Gobel’s funeral was conducted with military honours by soldiers of the Jakarta Capital Garrison Command. Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Saan Mustopa served as the inspecting officer at the ceremony.

Rachmat Gobel was born on 3 September 1962 to Thayeb Mohammad Gobel and Annie Noto Gobel. During his lifetime, Rachmat served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2024 and as Minister of Trade from 2014 to 2015.

Rachmat was also awarded the Bintang Mahaputera Adipradana. He breathed his last at Brawijaya Hospital in Tebet on Friday, 10 July 2026, at 03.20 Western Indonesia Time due to illness.