Profile of Awang Faroek: Former Governor of East Kalimantan Who Passed Away, Known as the Father of Development in East Kalimantan

Kapanlagi.com - Sad news comes from East Kalimantan. Awang Faroek Ishak, a figure known as the Father of Development in Kaltim, has passed away at the Kanujoso Djatiwibowo Hospital in Balikpapan on Sunday night (22/12/2024). At the age of 76, Awang leaves a profound mark in the history of this region and will be buried in Tenggarong on Monday (23/12/2024).

As a highly respected figure, Awang Faroek has made remarkable achievements in the fields of academia, politics, and bureaucracy. He is known as a visionary and dedicated leader, committed to advancing East Kalimantan. Throughout his career, Awang held various strategic positions, from lecturer, dean, regent, to governor.

His expertise in academia combined with his rich political experience made him the architect of progressive policies that brought positive changes. He has become an inspiration for many, especially the younger generation in East Kalimantan. Let us explore this inspiring journey of his life and career, remembering his unforgettable dedication and contributions.

1. The Beginning of Life and Education

Awang Faroek Ishak, an inspirational figure born in Tenggarong, East Kalimantan, on July 31, 1948, is the 11th child of 13 siblings from the couple Awang Ishak and Dayang Johariah, a famous Pamong Praja figure in Kaltim. He completed his primary education in Tarakan and continued to junior high and high school in Tenggarong before earning a bachelor's degree from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, IKIP Malang, in 1973.

Not only that, he also successfully completed a Master's in Management at the University of Indonesia (1997) and a Master's in National Resilience (1998). His career began as a staff member at the East Kalimantan Governor's Office, then he stepped into the academic world as the Assistant Rector III at Mulawarman University and Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education.

His high dedication led him to serve as the Head of Bapedalda Kaltim before entering politics, as well as becoming a visiting professor at Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia, adding to his impressive list of achievements.

2. Political and Government Career

Awang began his political journey brilliantly as a member of the DPR/MPR RI for two terms from 1987 to 1997, before moving further as the Regent of East Kutai for two terms (2000-2008).

This success led him to the position of Governor of East Kalimantan in 2008, where he led with a vision until 2018. Not satisfied with just that, in 2019, Awang returned to the political stage as a member of the DPR-RI representing East Kalimantan.

Widely known as a leader committed to infrastructure development and improving the quality of education, Awang continues to move forward to advance his region.

3. Life Philosophy and Dedication

Awang Faroek, a figure who never strays from the principles of sincere work and honesty, always emphasizes that carrying out duties is not just for personal interests. "My philosophy is sincerity and honesty, working not merely for oneself," he asserted, as reported by the official Alumnipedia Unair website.

He is also committed to promoting higher education as a foundation for building character and strengthening governance. At the age of 57, in 2005, Awang decided to pursue doctoral studies at Unair, demonstrating his unyielding passion for learning and contributing more.

4. Awards

Awang Faroek, a figure well-known in the public service sector, was recently recognized for his extraordinary dedication by receiving various prestigious awards.

Among the achievements he received are the Main Service Star in 2014 and the Melati Badge and Darma Bakti from the Scout Movement, which serve as tangible evidence of his commitment to building the younger generation.

Not only that, but the Satyalancana Pembangunan and Wira Karya awards also add to his long list of achievements, reflecting his significant contributions to community development.

5. Who is Awang Faroek Ishak?

Awang Faroek Ishak, a well-known figure in East Kalimantan, is a former Governor who also served as a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR-RI).

6. What is Awang Faroek's greatest contribution to East Kalimantan?

Awang has made an extraordinary contribution to East Kalimantan, particularly through the construction of impressive infrastructure and significant efforts to improve the quality of education.

7. Why is Awang Faroek nicknamed the Father of Development in East Kalimantan?

This nickname is given to him in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to advancing the region, both during his tenure as regent and governor, making him an indispensable figure in the development journey of the area.

(kpl/rmt)