Pak Wismoyo Arismunandar was a commander who had a significant influence on me. His teachings resonated deeply with me, emphasizing the importance of always thinking good, doing good, and speaking well. He believed that one should never harbor ill thoughts towards others, a teaching that I have always carried with me. I found his values to be highly beneficial and in line with both Indonesian culture and the military culture of the TNI.
One of the key lessons he imparted was that brave men should always be happy. He believed that a leader should uplift and comfort his men through various activities such as singing, sports, and group engagements, as they were the ones who faithfully carried out his commands. I first encountered Pak Wismoyo when I joined KOPASSANDHA, where he served as the Deputy Assistant for Security with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
It was during my time in KOPASSUS that Pak Wismoyo became our Commander in Group 1, and as the Commander of Company 112, I started to get to know him more personally. His credo of ‘Think good, do good, and speak well’ had a profound impact on me, and he always emphasized the importance of maintaining good spirits and humor.
Pak Wismoyo believed that a leader should create a happy and spirited environment for his men, participating in their activities and entertaining them, even if it meant singing or dancing along, regardless of one’s ability. He stressed the unity between a leader and his men, and I have always strived to create a positive atmosphere within my commands.
One memorable incident that showcased Pak Wismoyo’s teachings was during a ceremony in KOPASSUS, where he surprised me by requesting that I sing. Thanks to prior coordination with a keyboardist, I was able to deliver a performance that left everyone impressed, demonstrating the importance of creating a joyful atmosphere for one’s men.
Pak Wismoyo’s motto of ‘discipline is my breath, loyalty is my soul, honor is everything’ has stayed with me, and I have applied it not only in the military but also in my political career with GERINDRA. His teachings on not speaking ill of others and leading by example have shaped my leadership philosophy, and I continue to strive to be a leader who uplifts and inspires those under my command.
