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Titiek Soeharto

Titiek Soeharto: The First Daughter of the Former Indonesian President

Early Life and Education

Titiek Soeharto, born Raden Ajeng Siti Hediati Hariyadi, is the eldest daughter of former Indonesian President Soeharto and his wife, Tien Soeharto. She was born on April 21, 1949, in Semarang, Central Java. Titiek received her early education in Jakarta and later attended the Faculty of Economics at the University of Indonesia, graduating in 1974.

Political Career

Titiek Soeharto's political career began in the early 1990s when she joined the Golkar party, which was founded by her father. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a member of the People's Representative Council (DPR) in 1992. In 1997, she was elected as Chairwoman of the Golkar Faction in the DPR, making her the highest-ranking woman in Indonesian politics at the time.

Business Interests

In addition to her political career, Titiek Soeharto is also a successful businesswoman. She owns several companies, including PT Citra Marga Nusaphala Persada, which operates toll roads in Indonesia. She is also a major shareholder in the Bank Central Asia (BCA), one of Indonesia's largest banks.

Personal Life

Titiek Soeharto is married to Prabowo Subianto, a retired general and former Coordinating Minister for Defense and Security. They have one son, Didit Hediprasetyo. Titiek is a devout Muslim and is known for her philanthropic activities, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.

Legacy and Controversies

Titiek Soeharto's legacy is a complex one. She is widely praised for her political accomplishments and her contributions to Indonesian society. However, she has also been criticized for her alleged involvement in corruption and her close association with her father's authoritarian regime.

Wealth and Scandals

Titiek Soeharto is one of the wealthiest people in Indonesia. Her vast wealth has been the subject of much controversy, with allegations that she and her family amassed their fortune through corrupt practices during her father's presidency. In 2003, she was found guilty of embezzling funds from a state-owned bank and sentenced to 10 months in prison, but the verdict was later overturned on appeal.

Political Influence

Despite her legal troubles, Titiek Soeharto remains an influential figure in Indonesian politics. She is a close advisor to her brother, Bambang Trihatmodjo, who is the head of the Golkar party. She is also said to have significant influence over her husband, Prabowo Subianto, who is a leading candidate in the upcoming presidential election.

Conclusion

Titiek Soeharto's life and career have been marked by both triumphs and controversies. She is a complex and fascinating figure who has played a significant role in Indonesian history. Her legacy will continue to be debated for many years to come.