Hamzah Haz, Indonesian journalist and politician, 9th Vice President of Indonesia

Hamzah Haz: A Key Figure in Indonesia's Democratic Transition

Hamzah Haz, born on 15 February 1940, is a prominent Indonesian politician whose career spanned several transformative decades in the nation's history. He is best known for serving as the ninth Vice President of Indonesia from 2001 to 2004, a critical period following the end of the New Order regime and the consolidation of democratic reforms. Beyond his vice-presidential tenure, Hamzah Haz also held the influential position of Chairman of the United Development Party (PPP) from 1998 to 2007, steering one of Indonesia's oldest political parties through a dynamic era of change.

Early Life and Professional Background

Before his deep dive into national politics, Hamzah Haz established himself in various professional fields. He began his career as a journalist, contributing to media outlets during a nascent period of Indonesian journalism. His intellectual pursuits also led him into academia, where he served as a lecturer at the renowned IAIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta (now UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta), a leading Islamic state university. This blend of journalistic insight and academic rigor provided him with a unique perspective that later informed his political decisions.

A Long and Distinguished Political Career

Hamzah Haz's political journey was marked by consistent representation and significant ministerial appointments prior to his vice presidency. He served multiple terms as a member of the People's Representative Council (DPR), Indonesia's legislative body, effectively representing constituents from the early 1970s up to the late 1990s. His extensive experience in parliament laid the groundwork for his executive roles. During his career, he held several ministerial portfolios, including:

• Minister of Investment
• Minister of State for Food Affairs
• Minister of Cooperatives and Small-Medium Enterprises

These roles provided him with diverse administrative experience and a deep understanding of Indonesia's economic and social challenges.

The Vice Presidency (2001-2004): Navigating Reformasi

Hamzah Haz's elevation to the Vice Presidency on 26 July 2001 placed him alongside President Megawati Sukarnoputri, daughter of Indonesia's first President, Sukarno. Their administration took office during a turbulent yet hopeful time known as the Reformasi era, following the resignation of President Suharto in 1998. During this period, Indonesia was actively engaged in consolidating its democratic institutions, decentralizing power, and addressing the legacy of authoritarian rule. As Vice President, Hamzah Haz played a supporting role in navigating these complex transitions. His term concluded in 2004, coinciding with Indonesia's historic first direct presidential and vice-presidential elections, a landmark shift from the previous system where the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) elected the nation's leaders.

Leadership of the United Development Party (1998-2007)

A significant aspect of Hamzah Haz's influence stemmed from his leadership of the United Development Party (Partai Persatuan Pembangunan, PPP). He assumed the chairmanship of PPP in 1998, precisely when Indonesia was grappling with profound political changes. PPP, identifiable by its iconic Kaaba symbol, is one of Indonesia's oldest political parties, originally formed in 1973 as a fusion of various Islamic-based parties under the New Order government. Under Hamzah Haz's stewardship, PPP positioned itself as a key voice for Islamic political aspirations within the new democratic framework. He guided the party through several national elections and continued to serve as its chairman until 2007, solidifying its role as an enduring force in Indonesian politics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hamzah Haz

When was Hamzah Haz born?

Hamzah Haz was born on 15 February 1940.

What was Hamzah Haz's most prominent political role?

He served as the ninth Vice President of Indonesia from 2001 to 2004, under President Megawati Sukarnoputri.

Which political party did Hamzah Haz lead?

He chaired the United Development Party (PPP) from 1998 to 2007.

What was the political context of his vice presidency?

His vice-presidential term occurred during Indonesia's Reformasi era, a period of significant democratic transition and institutional reform following the end of the New Order regime.

Did Hamzah Haz hold other government positions?

Yes, prior to becoming Vice President, he served multiple terms as a member of the People's Representative Council (DPR) and held various ministerial roles, including Minister of Investment, Minister of State for Food Affairs, and Minister of Cooperatives and Small-Medium Enterprises.