JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS-  Hamzah Haz, who served as Indonesia’s vice president from 2001 to 2004, has passed away at the age of 83. Haz, a prominent figure in Indonesian politics and a key member of the United Development Party (PPP), died peacefully at his home in Jakarta, surrounded by his family.

Born on February 15, 1940, in Ketapang, West Kalimantan, Haz’s political journey was marked by his steadfast commitment to Islamic values and his advocacy for social justice. He began his career in the Ministry of Religious Affairs before transitioning to a more active role in politics, where he quickly rose through the ranks of the PPP.

Haz was elected as vice president in 2001, serving under President Megawati Sukarnoputri. His tenure was noted for efforts to bridge the gap between Indonesia’s diverse religious communities and for his work in promoting economic policies aimed at alleviating poverty. Despite the challenges of the post-Suharto era, Haz remained a stabilizing force in the government.

One of Haz’s significant contributions was his role in fostering dialogue between various political factions during a time of political instability. His ability to mediate and bring consensus was instrumental in maintaining the unity of the nation. His tenure also saw increased efforts to integrate Islamic values with national development policies, reflecting his vision for a harmonious and prosperous Indonesia.

After leaving office in 2004, Haz remained active in public life, often speaking on issues of religious tolerance and economic development. He continued to influence Indonesian politics through his leadership within the PPP and his participation in various national and international forums.