The Death of Try Sutrisno Marks a Significant Loss for Indonesian Democracy and the Military

General Try Sutrisno, Indonesia’s sixth Vice President and a prominent military figure, has passed away at the age of 90. He died at 06:58 WIB on Monday, 2 March at the Critical Care Unit of RSPAD Gatot Soebroto Hospital in Central Jakarta following a decline in his health condition. His body will be given full military honours before being laid to rest at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta.

The PKB (Kebangkitan Bangsa Party) faction leader in the House of Representatives, Jazilul Fawaid, expressed profound condolences, describing Sutrisno as one of the nation’s finest sons who had devoted decades to both the military and government. He noted that Sutrisno served with integrity in various positions, including Chief of Staff of the Army, Commander of the Armed Forces, and Vice President from 1993 to 1998, serving as an exemplar for younger generations.

Fawaid remembered Sutrisno as a leader who was not only firm but also humble. Despite advancing in age, Sutrisno maintained a critical stance towards national issues and consistently advocated for Indonesia’s wellbeing. “He is a statesman figure who remained consistent. Even in his later years, he maintained a firm and critical attitude towards various national problems. His advice and views were always directed towards a better Indonesia,” Fawaid stated.

The former Vice Chair of the MPR (People’s Consultative Assembly) expressed hope that Sutrisno’s services and dedication over several decades would be remembered as an important part of Indonesia’s national history. “May the deceased rest in peace and may his family be given patience and strength,” he concluded.

PKB Chairman Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar, the Indonesian Army (TNI AD), and Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra all conveyed their deep condolences at Sutrisno’s passing, recognising his significant contributions to the nation.