Profile of Sam Ratulangi, Swiss-Educated Hero

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – An intellectual figure from Tondano, North Sulawesi, Gerungan Saul Samuel Jacob Ratulangi, made history as an Indonesian national hero who earned a doctoral degree in Switzerland in 1919. This international academic achievement became the foundation for his efforts in leading the movement for Indonesian independence.

Popularly known as Sam Ratulangi, he was born on November 5, 1890, and pursued education all the way to Europe. After completing his basic and technical education in Indonesia, he studied mathematics in the Netherlands before obtaining a doctorate in mathematics and natural-sciences in Switzerland.

As cited from the book Kisah 124 Pahlawan & Pejuang Nusantara by Gamal Komandoko, he actively led student-movement organizations while studying abroad. His leadership was proven when he joined the Indonesian Association (Perhimpunan Indonesia) in the Netherlands and became the chairman of the Asian Student Organization in Switzerland.

Upon returning home, Sam Ratulangi applied his mathematical knowledge by teaching at AMS Yogyakarta and founding the Maskapai Asuransi Indonesia (Indonesian Insurance Company). His public roles expanded when he became a member of the People's Council (Volksraad) in 1927 and established the Persatuan Kaum Sarjana Indonesia (Indonesian Scholars Association) in 1932.

His work in journalism showed when he became an editor for the weekly publication Politik Nationale Commentaren from 1938 to 1942. Following the declaration of independence, the Indonesian government officially appointed him as the Governor of Sulawesi on August 19, 1945.

This major responsibility led to his arrest by Dutch forces and his exile to Serui, West Irian. Although later released, he was captured again by colonial forces during the Dutch Military Aggression II in late 1948.

The intellectual's journey ended when he passed away in Jakarta on June 30, 1949, at the age of 59. In honor of his service, he was buried in Tondano, and the Indonesian government declared him an Indonesian Independence Hero in 1961.