List of Soekarno's Wives, One of Whom Lives in Japan and Has a Big Business

Kapanlagi.com - Ir. Soekarno, the Proclaimer and the first President of the Republic of Indonesia, is not only known as a leader with extraordinary charisma but also as someone with a colorful love journey. With nine wives in his life, Bung Karno's love story is an interesting chapter in history that should not be missed.

Among the wives, Inggit Garnasih stands out as a loyal figure who accompanied Soekarno during difficult times when he was exiled. Fatmawati, who not only became a life partner but also etched her name in history as the First Lady who sewed the sacred Red and White flag. Equally interesting, Ratna Sari Dewi, one of Bung Karno's wives, now lives in Japan and is actively building a career in the business world.

In this article, we will thoroughly explore the fascinating stories of Soekarno's wives, from their first meetings to their contributions in the life journey of the Proclaimer. Let's take a closer look at their stories below, summarized by Kapanlagi.com, Monday (20/1).

1. Siti Oetari, Soekarno's First Wife

Quoting merdeka.com/Jatim, Siti Oetari is the daughter of HOS Tjokroaminoto, the political mentor of Bung Karno. This marriage took place in 1921 when Soekarno was 20 years old, while Siti Oetari was only 16. The marriage was influenced by the Oetari family's condition of losing their mother.

However, their relationship was more like siblings than husband and wife. Bung Karno acknowledged that this marriage was a form of respect for his teacher, Tjokroaminoto. Their marriage lasted only two years before ending in divorce because Soekarno decided to continue his education in Bandung.

This story marks the beginning of Bung Karno's love journey, filled with dynamics and romance, colored by his role as a student and a future leader of the nation. Reportedly, Soekarno did not truly love Oetari at that time.

"I owe a debt of gratitude to Pak Tjokro and I love Oetari, albeit only a little. Nevertheless, if I need to marry Oetari to ease the burden of the one I adore, I will do it," said Soekarno to Cindy Adam, the author of the book Penyambung Lidah Rakyat Indonesia.

2. Inggit Garnasih, a Loyal Companion in Difficult Times

Inggit Garnasih is the second wife of Soekarno, whom he married in 1923 after divorcing Siti Oetari. Inggit, who was older than Soekarno, is known as a patient and dedicated figure in accompanying Bung Karno.

During their marriage, Inggit became the backbone of the family by selling herbal medicine and cigarettes to support Soekarno's struggle. She also faithfully accompanied Soekarno during his exile to various places, including Ende and Bengkulu. Her courage and sacrifices earned her respect as one of the important figures in Bung Karno's life.

However, their marriage ended in 1943 after Soekarno decided to marry Fatmawati. Inggit, who did not want to be a co-wife, chose to return to Bandung with the best hopes for her former husband.

3. Fatmawati, the First Lady of Indonesia

Fatmawati is the third wife of Soekarno, whom he married in 1943. This woman from Bengkulu became an important figure in Indonesian history due to her role as the first First Lady and the initiator of the Merah Putih heritage flag.

Their marriage was blessed with five children, including Megawati Soekarnoputri who later became the fifth President of Indonesia. Fatmawati played a crucial role in supporting Indonesia's struggle for independence, although her domestic life was not always smooth.

Fatmawati chose to separate from Soekarno after her husband decided to marry again. Nevertheless, she is remembered as a strong figure dedicated to her nation and family.

4. Ratna Sari Dewi, A Modern Figure in Bung Karno's Life

According to kemdikbud.go.id, Ratna Sari Dewi, whose real name is Naoko Nemoto, is the sixth wife of Soekarno. This woman from Japan was married in 1962 when she was only 19 years old. Dewi brought a modern touch to Soekarno's life and became his companion at various international events.

After Soekarno passed away, Dewi chose to settle in Japan and lived her life as an entrepreneur in the fields of jewelry and cosmetics. She is also active in the arts and often appears on Japanese television, showcasing her unwavering spirit despite being far from Indonesia.

Dewi is known as an intelligent and skilled diplomat, and she is also a successful businesswoman running a large enterprise in jewelry and cosmetics. This makes her one of Soekarno's most influential wives on the international stage.

"Currently, she frequently appears on Japanese TV, including serving as a judge in various beauty contests," wrote the Kemdikbud page.

5. The Stories of Other Wives and Their Roles

In addition to the names mentioned above, Soekarno also had other wives such as Hartini, Kartini Manoppo, Haryati, Yurike Sanger, and Heldy Djafar. Each had a unique role in Bung Karno's life.

Hartini is known as a patient companion during difficult times, while Kartini Manoppo was a beautiful flight attendant who captured Soekarno's heart. Haryati, Yurike, and Heldy are symbols of Soekarno's love in his twilight years, where he continued to seek the warmth of family despite the heated political situation.

Although their love stories were different, they all became an important part of Bung Karno's life history, showcasing the human side of a great leader.

6. Who was Soekarno's first wife?

Soekarno's first wife, Siti Oetari, was the daughter of the prominent figure HOS Tjokroaminoto, who is known as one of the pioneers of the Indonesian national movement.

7. How many times did Soekarno get married?

Soekarno got married nine times throughout his life.

8. What was Fatmawati's role in Indonesian history?

Fatmawati was the first First Lady who sewed the sacred Red and White flag for the Proclamation of Independence.

9. Where does Ratna Sari Dewi live now?

Ratna Sari Dewi now lives in Japan and is active as an entrepreneur.

10. What are the reasons Soekarno married many women?

Soekarno had a great charisma, and his marriages were often based on diplomatic needs and emotional connections.

(kpl/rmt)