In January 2005, during a seminar in Bukittinggi, West
Sumatra, historian Asvi Warman Adam posed a provocative question about the
famed freedom fighter Tan Malaka. His query—concerning Tan Malaka’s
sexuality—sparked debate, but Dutch historian Harry A. Poeze quickly diffused
the tension, asserting that Tan Malaka’s love life, though often unfulfilled,
was quite conventional. One key figure in this discussion was Paramita Rahayu
Abdurachman, better known as Jo, a remarkable woman deeply intertwined with
Indonesia’s history.
Born on February 29, 1920, Jo was the niece of Achmad
Soebardjo, Indonesia’s first foreign minister, and her upbringing reflected the
progressive ideals of her time. Her mother, Siti Katidjah, an advocate for
education and women’s rights, shaped Jo’s worldview. Jo grew into a strong,
independent woman with a passion for social welfare, history, and the arts.
Jo’s connection to Tan Malaka is noteworthy. In 1945, while
hiding at Soebardjo’s residence during the tumultuous post-war period, Tan
Malaka met Jo, who, despite her youth, was drawn to his intellect and
revolutionary fervor. Their relationship was marked by mutual respect, with Jo
even confessing her love for Tan in a later interview with Poeze. However,
political circumstances and Tan’s revolutionary ideals prevented their union,
and both remained unmarried for the rest of their lives.
Jo’s contributions extended far beyond her personal life. In
the early years of Indonesian independence, she worked tirelessly to establish
the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), heading its foreign affairs division. Jo also
played a key role in translating the 1945 Constitution into English and
providing humanitarian aid during the Indonesian struggle for independence. Her
dedication earned her respect in international circles, particularly during her
time assisting war victims in Maluku, where she was adopted by the King of Soya
and given the family name Rechata.
Her passion for social justice and historical research led
her to study sociology in New York and explore social welfare policies across
Europe. Back in Indonesia, Jo contributed to the Ministry of Social Welfare and
continued her work with PMI. In the 1960s, she became involved in establishing
the Army Women’s Corps (KOWAD), further cementing her legacy as a pioneer for
women in leadership roles.
As a researcher with the Indonesian Institute of Sciences
(LIPI), Jo produced numerous works on Indonesian history, particularly focusing
on Maluku and Portuguese legacies in the archipelago. Her dedication to
preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage and her research on East Timor helped
shape national perceptions on key historical issues.
Despite retiring in 1985, Jo’s influence persisted. Her
works, published posthumously, continue to serve as essential references in
Indonesian historical studies. Paramita Rahayu Abdurachman passed away on March
23, 1988, at the age of 68, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, intellectual
curiosity, and a commitment to the betterment of her country.
Jo’s life exemplifies a woman ahead of her time—an
intellectual, an advocate for humanitarian causes, and a passionate defender of
Indonesia’s cultural and historical heritage. Her story remains an inspiration
for generations to come.
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