By: Prabowo Subianto [taken from the Book: Military Leadership Notes from Experience Chapter I: Exemplary Leaders of The Indonesian Armed Forces]
I learned a valuable life lesson from Pak Ben Mboi, who said, ‘Prabowo if you want to be a good leader, I can only tell you two things. First, love your people and second, use your common sense. It can’t go wrong.’
That’s what has always stuck with me. As a leader, it is important to have love for the people and to apply common sense in decision-making. Keeping things simple often yields the best results.
His advice brought to mind a Javanese proverb, “Ojo Rumongso Iso, Nanging Iso Rumongso.” It emphasizes the need for leaders not only to be capable but also to empathize with the feelings, struggles, and needs of others. These are profound philosophical ideas that have stayed with me. To this day, I still hold on to Pak Ben Mboi’s words, ‘love your people, use your common sense’.
Years later, I had the opportunity to meet Doctor Ben Mboi, a well-known figure after retiring from the military and serving as the Governor of East Nusa Tenggara. In the TNI, he was recognized as a military doctor who took part in the red beret (RPKAD) airborne jump in Merauke during the West Irian liberation campaign. Captain Benny Moerdani, who later became the Minister of Defence and TNI Commander (PANGAB), led the company that Pak Ben Mboi was part of during the Merauke operation.
During our meeting, Pak Ben Mboi shared many stories with me. He recounted an experience before their airborne jump to West Irian when Major General Suharto, then Commander-in-Chief of the Mandala Command, oversaw the sendoff ceremony. The mission of Operation Jaya Wijaya was to end the Dutch occupation of West Irian. Pak Harto, who later rose to become a TNI General and the President of Indonesia, delivered a brief speech to the troops.
Reflecting on the moment, Pak Ben Mboi recalled Pak Harto’s words: ‘You will carry out the task of liberating West Irian. We sent two teams before you a few days ago. But we have lost contact with them so far. I have to tell you, the chance of you making it back alive is only 50 per cent. I will now give you three minutes to think about it. If you are hesitant, now is your time to leave.’
Pak Ben Mboi mentioned that despite the gravity of the situation, no one hesitated to step back. If given more time, they might have reconsidered, but their unwavering determination exemplified true heroism and national spirit.
Another story Pak Ben Mboi shared after his governorship highlighted the respect and admiration his subordinates had for him. Upon learning that he did not have a home, they rallied together to fund the construction of a house for him. This gesture showcased the deep appreciation for leaders who devoted their lives to serving the country without seeking personal gain.
Once again, I was reminded of Pak Ben Mboi’s advice on leadership: ‘Prabowo, if you want to be a good leader, I can only tell you two things. First, love your people and second, use your common sense. You can’t go wrong with this principle.’
This mantra continues to resonate with me. Leaders must prioritize love for their people and rely on common sense to guide their decisions. Understanding the emotions and needs of others is essential for effective leadership. Pak Ben Mboi’s wisdom, ‘love your people, use your common sense’, remains a guiding principle for me.
