Try Sutrisno: His Brief Life History and Service

RRI.CO.iD, Jakarta – Try Sutrisno was a former Vice President of Indonesia who served from 1993 to 1998, during the sixth term of President Suharto’s administration. Until his death on Monday, March 2, 2026, he was the only surviving vice president from the New Order era and the oldest living former vice president.

Try was born on November 15, 1935, in Surabaya, now part of East Java, which at the time was the largest city in the Dutch East Indies. His early career was shaped through various strategic assignments within the Indonesian National Armed Forces, as reported by the Presidential Secretariat on Monday.

His military education included studies at the Joint Staff and Command School (Seskogab) in Bandung, West Java, in 1977. The knowledge he gained strengthened his capacity as a strategic officer in maintaining national stability during crucial periods of Indonesia’s development.

His dedication and professionalism led to his appointment to several important positions. His highest-ranking role was as Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces (ABRI) from 1988 to 1993, where he oversaw the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the police.

Throughout his life, the state awarded him various honors in recognition of his service and dedication. Among them was the Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipradana, the second class of Indonesia’s highest honor.

He was also awarded the highest decorations within the military and police institutions. In addition, Try received honors from abroad, including the Legion of Merit from the United States and the Order of the Yugoslav Flag from Yugoslavia.

In 1993, he was elected as vice president in the General Session of the People's Consultative Assembly, accompanying Suharto in the Sixth Development Cabinet. He witnessed further Indonesian development as the country approached its semicentennial in 1995.

“The example, integrity, and spirit of service shown by the late [Try Sutrisno] will always be remembered as an inspiration for future generations in safeguarding unity and building Indonesia,” said the Presidential Secretariat.