H.E. Mr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, President of Indonesia

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H.E. Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, more commonly known as SBY, is a prominent figure in Indonesian politics who has significantly influenced national and international initiatives.

Born on September 9, 1949, in Pacitan, East Java, he has undergone various transformative phases in his career, from being a student to becoming the 6th President of Indonesia (2004-2014). Notably, he is the country’s first directly elected President.

Before delving into politics, SBY’s early professional life was rooted in the Indonesian Army. He rose through the ranks, eventually achieving the stature of Lieutenant General. This military career later paved the way for him to transition to politics, where he undertook multiple roles – from a reformist general to a Cabinet Minister and subsequently from a Minister to a full-fledged Politician, before ultimately assuming the presidential office.

In addition to his political achievements, President Yudhoyono is highly educated. While attending the US Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, he earned his Master’s in Management from Webster University, St. Louis, in 1991. He furthered his academic pursuits by obtaining a Doctorate in Agricultural Economics from the Bogor Institute of Agriculture in 2004.

Presidential Tenure: During his two-term presidency, Indonesia witnessed several significant reforms and achievements:

1. Economic Stability: Under SBY’s leadership, Indonesia navigated through global economic downturns, maintaining steady growth and upgrading its status to that of a middle-income country.
2. Democratic Consolidation: SBY’s era was characterized by the deepening of democratic processes in Indonesia, with increased freedom of the press, more transparent governance, and a strengthened role in civil society.
3. Counter-Terrorism: His government took active measures against terrorism, weakening major terrorist networks operating within the country.
4. Environmental Commitments: SBY took proactive measures in ecological conservation, including efforts to reduce deforestation and commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Clean Water Act of 2015: One of SBY’s standout contributions post-presidency was his co-chairmanship of the Clean Water Act of 2015. The initiative focused on:

• Addressing the global water crisis, aiming to provide safe and accessible drinking water to millions worldwide.
• Encouraging international cooperation, fostering investments in water infrastructure, and promoting sustainable water resource management practices.
• Advocating for clean water as a fundamental human right and ensuring that vulnerable and marginalized populations have equitable access.

Legacy: SBY’s presidency and subsequent endeavors, like the Clean Water Act of 2015, have left a lasting impact. His commitment to democratic values, environmental sustainability, and international collaboration cements his place as one of the foremost leaders in Indonesia’s modern history.

Global Awards:

• In 2010, he received the Gold Standard Award.
• Acknowledged as Asia’s Top Political Communicator by Public Affairs Asia, based in Hong Kong.
• He was bestowed with the “Global Home Tree Award.”
• His receipt of the UNEP Award marked his environmental efforts.
• In 2011, the United Nations (UNDRR) recognized him as the “Global Champion for Disaster Risk Reduction.” 
  https://www.unisdr.org/archive/19883
• In January 2005, he created the Askeskin Program (which has since evolved into Jamkesmas), allowing poor people to have access to healthcare
  https://www.internationalbudget.org/wp-content/uploads/jamkesda_english-2.pdf
• Yudhoyono is one of Time Magazine’s 100 World’s Most Influential People
  http://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/completelist/0,29569,1894410,00.html
• In February 2007, Yudhoyono added welfare to UKP3R’s tasks by ordering them to also focus on the abolition of poverty, direct cash assistance, public service, and assisting programs in health and education.