In Memory of
MR. ALI ALATAS
1932 - 2008
Former Indonesian Foreign Minister Ali Alatas died of lingering illness at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore on 11 December 2008 at 7:30 am. He was survived by his wife, Junisa and three (3) children.
Mr. Ali Alatas served the Department of Foreign Affairs for over 40 years holding various positions until appointed as Minister of the department in 1988 to 1999. He participated in numerous international assemblies and has delivered Indonesia’s Foreign policy competently. He also served as Ambassador/ Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations in New York (1982–1988) and Geneva (1975-1978).
An advocate of human rights and non-aligned movements, Mr. Alatas had dedicated himself to the objectives, ideals and principles on which the ASEAN was founded 41 years ago. His tenure was the longest serving foreign minister in ASEAN and was one of the most trusted advisers of Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. In 2004, he was appointed as Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Council.
He was conferred the “Order of Sikatuna Award”, Philippines’ highest award for diplomats by then Philippine President Joseph Estrada on 9 August 1999 not only for his contributions to peace and stability in Asia but specially for his vital role in mediating the Peace Process between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF). As chairman of the then Committee of Six of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), he negotiated between GRP and MNLF from 1993 to 1996, as prelude to the signing of the peace pact in 1996.
Mr. Ali Alatas was born on 4 November 1932. He was 76 years old.
In memory and honor of Mr. Ali Alatas, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Manila, is opening its door for those who would like express their sympathy and share this bereaved moment with the Indonesian community in the Philippines.
A Book of Condolences is up for signing from 15 & 16 December 2008, at 10:00 am until 4:oo pm with lunch breaks from 12:00 to 2:00 noon.
Manila, 11 December 2008