The Smiling Professor’s Oil Diplomacy

He is known as one of ‘The Gang of Five’ that formulated the direction of economic development under the New Order. Along with Widjojo Nitisastro, Emil Salim, Mohammad Sadli, and Ali Wardhana, Suharto made him one of his team of economic ministers. Initially he was Minister for Manpower, Transmigration, and Cooperatives, then Minister for Mining.

When Subroto became Minister for Mining, the world oil price was soaring. As well, he had to straighten out Pertamina that was then in poor shape through mismanagement. From government, Subroto later switched careers to become Secretary-General of OPEC. In that organization of oil-producing nations, he became known as an adroit diplomat with a ready smile.

In the twilight years of the New Order, Subroto turned into one of Suharto’s critics, becoming active in a number of organizations demanding reform. Today, in his 87th year, Subroto remains sharp, quick and clear when recounting his experiences to Tempo’s Yandi M. Rofiyandi and Ninin Damayanti. He no longer plays tennis, but still exercises on his treadmill and occasionally swims. Should someone ask his age, Subroto shoots back: What age? Psychologically, I’m still only 45!