Testimonial by Wimar Witoelar

Summary

“May you live in interesting times”, a proverb says. Many would count their lucky stars to have lived through important moments in history.

Accordingly, we welcome the publication of Sarwono Kusumaatmadja's (SKA) autobiography, which will surely help us understand the moments he experienced through a more discerning eye: the early days of the newly independent republic, the Soekarno era and the New Order. For me personally, this book is not just something that jogs my memory. SKA is an important figure in my life, and the scope of this book covers the time during which both of us started to become acquainted with the world.

This book also reveals my good friend to the world in new dimensions. SKA relates his life experiences with great clarity and depth, but manages to avoid being tedious with his witty SKA-esque repertoires.

The book stands as proof that to be intellectual is not merely about education but also enlightenment born out of awareness. In this regard, the book has the potential to cultivate intellectuality and maturity in its readers.

This book covers the period in which SKA grew up and eventually became Secretary General of Golkar. It is a story of great interest since not many are familiar with SKA's background. Those who are somewhat familiar with his background will also benefit from the intimate details imparted by this book. One thing I know about SKA: he is an honest man, which makes this book credible.

The story of Sarwono's life from childhood till high school took place in the setting of the war for independence and with Soekarno at the pinnacle of his power. Yet, somehow, this is not a political book. What makes it interesting lies in the accounts of everyday life, in the socio-economic snapshots it gives of Jakarta at the time, something unfamiliar to most young people today. Perhaps not many will even consider things like this important. But they are important if we want to understand why and how Jakarta became the city we know it today. So, in a way, this book is a testimony on “Jakarta in the Making”.