Remembering Zaini Abdullah, Key Figure in the Peace of the 'Veranda of Mecca'
The passing of Zaini Abdullah, Governor of Aceh for the 2012-2017 period, has left deep grief for the people of the Land of Serambi Mekah. The figure, affectionately known as Abu Doto, was recognised not only as an administrative leader but also as a symbol of calmness, order, and simplicity that remained with him until the end of his life.
The public’s longing for the peace figure was evident during the funeral procession on Saturday (13/6). Tens of thousands of people, ranging from high-ranking officials and religious scholars to students and the general public, crowded the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh. They waited for hours to perform the funeral prayer after the Asar prayer as a final mark of respect for the man who dedicated his life to the stability of Aceh.
Following the procession in Banda Aceh, the body of Abu Doto was taken to his hometown in Gampong Rapana, Teureubue, Mutiara District, Pidie Regency. There, the waves of mourners did not subside. Residents from the small town of Beureunuen to the remote hinterlands flocked to await the arrival of the leader at his childhood home.
Although the funeral prayer had been performed in Banda Aceh, at the request of residents and relatives in Pidie, the funeral prayer was conducted for a second time at the Teureubue Mosque at approximately 19:30 WIB. This demonstrated the immense influence and affection the community held for his persona.
M. Adli Abdullah, a cultural expert from Syiah Kuala University (USK), noted that this funeral procession serves as a moment of reflection for Aceh regarding the services of Zaini Abdullah. The late governor was buried in the Integrated Hafidh Quran Islamic Boarding School complex, directly in front of his birthplace.
The location of Abu Doto’s grave is situated precisely to the east of his father’s grave, Teungku Abdullah Hanafiah. This placement symbolises the return of a local son who travelled as far as Sweden to fight for the fate of his people, yet chose to return to his traditional roots and family at the end of his life.
The former Governor of Aceh for the 2012-2017 period and a key figure in the Aceh peace process, Zaini Abdullah, breathed his last on Saturday (13/6) at approximately 12:24 WIB.