Profile of a Foreign Minister

Adam Malik, who served as Indonesian foreign minister during the turbulent years of 1966 to 1977 and as Indonesian vice- president between 1978 and 1983, was undoubtedly the most versatile and colorful foreign minister ever known in the history of our republic.

Born in Tapanuli, Sumatra, more than half a century ago, he passed away on Sept. 5, 1984. Adam Malik, with his slender figure and smiling face, was a classical diplomat and statesman who was able to settle the most difficult problems patiently and with a smile. By nature a humble and religious man, he could convince even his most stubborn opponent to listen patiently to his arguments and finally give in.

But Adam Malik was not only a born statesman and diplomat, but also an excellent journalist, writer and connoisseur of art. He was known for the sharpness of his pen, the logic of his arguments and the symbol of a true revolutionary spirit among the 1945 generation.

In his outstanding career as an ambassador, foreign minister and vice-president, he was charged with the tedious and difficult task of leading the Indonesian people through various phases -- the struggle for West Irian, the establishment of ASEAN. His diplomatic career peaked when he was chosen as president of the General Assembly of the United Nations in 1971.

Adam Malik is the only Indonesian foreign minister so far to have the privilege of serving as president of the nations of the world. A German minister once shook hands with his host at Hotel Indonesia and whispered softly in his ear, calling him the ex- president of the world. The comment was accompanied with a broad smile.

A political commentator described Adam Malik on Voice of America as one of the most colorful and eloquent foreign ministers in Southeast Asia.

The most embarrassing moment protocol officers had to endure when arranging social functions in honor of foreign dignitaries was that Adam Malik often appeared late.

As one of the junior protocol officers, I still vividly remember the embarrassing moment when all the guests were present and the dinner was served but Adam Malik was absent. It isn't surprising at all that our suits became wet with perspiration. And when you were on the brink of a mental breakdown from embarrassment and desperation, Pak Adam appeared, walking calmly into the dining room, charming as always, as if nothing had happened in this good world.

Admirable too was his health: indefatigable, tireless. Even after an endless journey across continents and oceans he could be as fresh as ever, always smiling on the stairs of the plane.

His philosophy of life, spiced with humor, was manifested by his saying "everything can be arranged". On the occasion of Indonesia's 50 year commemoration, it is fitting indeed that we honor and remember this great patriot, whose success was due to his conviction that he was serving the people, the same people with which he shared destiny during the turbulence of the great revolution, and that his country, his beloved Indonesia should occupy its rightful place among the nations of the world.

HADI MARTOYO

Jakarta