The Body of John Tobing, Composer of 'Darah Juang', Lies in State at the Bethesda Funeral Home in Yogyakarta
The composer of the song ‘Darah Juang’, Johnsony Maharsak Lumban Tobing, or John Tobing, passed away on Wednesday. His body is lying in state at the Arimatea funeral home at Bethesda Hospital in Yogyakarta.
As observed by detikJogja on Thursday (26/2/2026) at 10:45 AM, several family members were seen welcoming relatives who came to express their condolences and pay their respects to the deceased John.
In the white and purple-themed room, the coffin, adorned with flowers and a photo of John, is displayed. The atmosphere is filled with emotion, despite the constant flow of people coming and going to offer their prayers to John.
Outside the funeral home, several wreaths are displayed. Some of the wreaths bear the names of prominent figures, such as the Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, and the Chairman of Commission XII of the DPR RI, Willy Aditya.
According to information gathered by detikJogja, John’s body will lie in state for two days and will be buried on Saturday (28/2) at the Madurejo Cemetery in Prambanan, Sleman.
Previously, news of John’s passing spread throughout the Indonesian music and activist communities. John Tobing, the composer of ‘Darah Juang’, passed away on Wednesday evening. The news of John’s passing was confirmed by his colleague, Joko Utomo.
“Yes, it’s true (John) passed away at RSA UGM,” Joko said when contacted by reporters on Wednesday (25/2) night.
Joko said that John had been undergoing treatment at RSA UGM before being pronounced dead at 8:45 PM.
“He was admitted to the hospital early this morning. (He was pronounced) dead at 8:45 PM at RSA UGM,” he said.
John is well-known among activists for his song ‘Darah Juang’. The song has become a symbol of resistance and the spirit of struggle for young generations, often heard in student demonstrations since the reform era.
As of now, there is no further information regarding the cause of John’s death and the funeral arrangements. However, in December 2025, John was admitted to the hospital due to a stroke.
“The family is currently in a meeting (to discuss the funeral arrangements). Please wait for further information,” he concluded.
(ahr/ams)