Remembering Solahudin, a Journalist of Quiet Dedication

AsiaN Obituary

From Canberra to AJI Secretary-General:

Remembering Solahudin, a Journalist of Quiet Dedication

May 1998 remains an indelible moment in Indonesia’s modern history. The resignation of President Soeharto unleashed long-suppressed democratic aspirations, sending waves of reform through society. President Habibie’s brief tenure was followed by Abdurrahman Wahid, widely known as Gus Dur, who opened unprecedented space for freedom of expression and civil society.

The late M. Yamin once recalled that era with a laugh. “Ed, we can do anything now. Under Gus Dur, everything is allowed.” The remark sounded lighthearted, yet it captured the spirit of a time filled with both uncertainty and hope.

It was during this transitional period that I received a scholarship to study in Canberra, Australia. At Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, I was greeted by Solahudin, an old friend and fellow journalist, who arrived in his white Mazda. At the time, he was a reporter for Ummat and later became a contributor to several Indonesian media outlets while based in Australia.

In Canberra, Solahudin was far more than a friend. He was a guide, a connector, and an honest critic. He accompanied me to parliamentary offices and government institutions and did not hesitate to comment that my apartment was “too expensive.” All I could explain was that it had been assigned by the university, leaving no room for choice. Looking back, even such remarks reflected his quiet concern for others.

As my program drew to a close, Solahudin introduced me to Amrih Widodo at the Australian National University. We then went our separate ways, only to be reunited later in Jakarta through the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI).

At the AJI Congress in Semarang from 2001 to 2003, Ati Nurbaiti was elected chair, and Solahudin became secretary-general. We worked under constant constraints, with limited resources, yet with unwavering conviction. Solahudin was a rare kind of colleague: loyal, unassuming, and always ready to help without expecting anything in return.

Years later, I learned that he had devoted himself deeply to Islamic studies. He visited places overlooked by the media, meticulously examined court documents, and transformed his findings into important books. His work was quiet and patient, yet profound.

When we met again, he looked noticeably slimmer. Regular mountain climbing had transformed his body, and his energy seemed boundless.

Today, upon hearing of his passing, we are left with a difficult void to fill. Solahudin was a journalist who dedicated his life to others. He chose principle over prominence, presence over noise.

Rest in peace, Solahudin. Your work on this earth is complete. Your legacy of quiet dedication will long be remembered