Biografi Gus Dur (KH. Abdurrahman Wahid) dan Kisah serta Karir Politik Menjadi Presiden RI Ke-4. #5

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of the life and political career of KH. Abdurrahman Wahid, also known as Gus Dur, the fourth President of the Republic of Indonesia. By understanding his journey, we can appreciate his contributions to Indonesian society and politics.

Step 1: Early Life and Education

• Gus Dur was born as Abdurrahman Adakhil in Jombang, East Java.
• He later adopted the name Abdurrahman Wahid and was affectionately called Gus Dur.
• He was the grandson of Hasyim Asy’ari, the founder of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Pesantren Tebuireng.
• His education journey began in Jakarta, attending:
  • SD Kris
  • SD Matraman Perwari
• After completing elementary and middle school, he pursued religious studies at Pesantren Tegalrejo in Magelang.
• He gained practical experience by working as a teacher and later as a school principal.

Step 2: Higher Education and Early Career

• In 1963, he received a scholarship to study at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt.
• He encountered difficulties at Al-Azhar, as he disagreed with their teaching methods.
• He then continued his studies at the University of Baghdad, Iraq, thanks to a different scholarship.
• Gus Dur aimed to further his education at McGill University in Canada but chose to return to Indonesia instead.

Step 3: Involvement in Education and Social Issues

• After abandoning his plans to study abroad, Gus Dur focused on improving the conditions of pesantren (Islamic boarding schools).
• In 1974, he became the Secretary General of Pesantren Tebuireng until 1980.
• He served as Katib Awwal (Secretary) of the Nahdlatul Ulama until 1984.
• His experience as a journalist for Majalah Horizon and Budaya Jaya enriched his perspective on social issues.

Step 4: Political Career and Presidency

• Gus Dur's political career culminated in his election as the President of Indonesia from 1999 to 2001.
• His presidency was marked by efforts to promote democracy and religious tolerance.
• He faced various challenges, including economic issues and political opposition.

Step 5: Legacy and Final Years

• Gus Dur passed away on December 30, 2009, in Jakarta, due to health complications.
• He was buried in his hometown of Jombang, next to his ancestors.
• His legacy continues to influence Indonesian politics and Islamic education.

Conclusion

KH. Abdurrahman Wahid's life reflects a unique blend of education, commitment to social issues, and political leadership. His dedication to improving Indonesian society and promoting tolerance remains relevant today. To further explore his contributions, consider researching his policies during his presidency or the impact of his work in pesantren education.