Skip to main content

Anton Medan

Anton Medan (born Tan Hok Liang on October 10, 1957) is a former robber and gambling tycoon who converted to Islam and became a preacher in 1992. Prior his conversion to Islam, he grew up amid the dark politics of Indonesia. It was during the Suharto's New Order rule when gangsters were used in politics, bussiness and government agencies.


In 1998, Anton Medan was put as a scapegoat being the orchestrator of the Jakarta Riots after which the allegation was then quietly dropped. The riot, which was initially a student demonstration to protest against the Indonesian president Suharto, turned into an anti-Chinese demonstration in the capital Jakarta.

Anton Medan is of Chinese descent, but he took the street joining the riot to prove himself that he was loyal to the people or himself became a target. In the political turmoil of 1998, it was also reported that Prabowo Subianto, Suharto's son-in-law and the commander of Kopassus, had recruited and manipulated Anton Medan to gain millitant supporters.

During the investigation of the 1998 riot, Anton Medan denied the accusation that he was actively in role behind the scene, although he admitted that he was in the middle of the mob. However, he refused to testify unless the National Human Rights Commission rehabilitated his name first.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

The Largest Islands in Indonesia: From Largest to Smallest

Indonesia, an archipelago in Southeast Asia, is the world's largest island country, consisting of more than 17,000 islands. These islands vary greatly in size, from massive landmasses like Sumatra and Borneo to tiny islets scattered across the oceans. Here's a detailed look at the largest islands in Indonesia, ranked from the largest to the smallest. 1. New Guinea (Papua) Area : Approximately 785,753 square kilometers (Indonesian portion: 421,981 square kilometers) Description : New Guinea, known as Papua in Indonesia, is the second-largest island in the world after Greenland. It is shared between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. The Indonesian part comprises the provinces of Papua, West Papua, South Papua, Central Papua, and Highland Papua. The island is famous for its diverse cultures and rich biodiversity, with dense rainforests, rugged mountain ranges, and a significant number of endemic species. 2. Borneo (Kalimantan) Area : Approximately 748,168 square kilometers (Indonesi...

Recipe: Nasi Bebek (Duck Rice)

### Recipe: Nasi Bebek (Duck Rice) ### History of Nasi Bebek Nasi Bebek, which translates to "Duck Rice," is a traditional Indonesian dish that showcases the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Its origins are closely tied to the culinary practices of Java, particularly in regions known for their elaborate and flavorful dishes. The dish typically features tender, roasted or braised duck served with aromatic jasmine rice and accompanied by fresh vegetables and herbs. The preparation of Nasi Bebek reflects the influence of Chinese and Indonesian culinary traditions. The use of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in the marinade demonstrates Chinese influence, while the incorporation of local spices and herbs highlights Indonesian flavors. Historically, duck has been a popular choice in Indonesian cuisine, often prepared for special occasions and festive gatherings due to its rich flavor and texture. Over time, Nasi Bebek has evolved and been adapted in various regions of Indonesia, w...

Sayur Bening Recipe

 **Sayur Bening Recipe** Sayur Bening is a simple yet nutritious Indonesian vegetable soup that is beloved for its clear broth and fresh taste. This dish is a staple in many Indonesian households, known for its ease of preparation and health benefits. Typically made with a variety of green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, along with corn and sometimes tomatoes, Sayur Bening is a light and refreshing dish p erfect for any meal. ### History of Sayur Bening Sayur Bening has its roots in the traditional Indonesian diet, which emphasizes the use of fresh vegetables and simple cooking methods. This dish is particularly popular in Java, where it is often served as part of a larger meal alongside rice and other side dishes. The simplicity of Sayur Bening reflects the agricultural lifestyle of many Indonesians, where fresh produce from local markets or home gardens is readily available. Over generations, it has become a comforting and reliable dish that families turn to for its ease of pr...