Kuwait City, Kuwait, April 1, 2020: The Olympic Council of Asia would like to express its deepest condolences to the Indonesian Olympic Committee on the passing of long-serving athletics patron Mohamad “Bob” Hasan.
The renowned business tycoon and former minister died of lung cancer at the Gatot Subroto Army Hospital in Central Jakarta on Tuesday, March 31. He was 89.
He was a former Vice President of the OCA and former President of the Asian Athletics Association and led the Indonesian Athletics Association (PASI) for four decades.
In a statement, the OCA Director General Husain Al-Musallam said: “The OCA is very sad to learn of the passing of Bob Hasan.
“He was a very popular and respected figure in the world of athletics and also within the Olympic movement in Indonesia and Asia.
“He made a huge contribution to the sport of track and field for more than 40 years. His enthusiasm and dedication will be missed in Indonesia, Asia and around the world.”
According to the Jakarta Post, Bob Hasan implemented rules encouraging all athletes under his watch to prioritize saving and investing rather than spending the money earned for their achievements. He didn't hesitate to admonish an athlete and threaten to kick them out of the PASI if they decided to ignore his words.
Bob Hasan also served as Trade and Industry Minister in Soeharto’s New Order government.
The funeral service was scheduled to be held at the Gatot Subroto family’s private cemetery complex in Ungaran, Semarang, Central Java, on Wednesday.
Statement from Asian Athletics Association President Dahlan Alhamad
In a letter to Presidents and General Secretaries of the member federations of the Asian Athletics Association, AAA President Dahlan Alhamad said: “It is with sadness to inform that Mohamad “Bob” Hasan of Indonesia passed away today (Tuesday). He has been a businessman, former Minister of Trade and Industry.
“Notably, he was the 4th President of the Asian Athletics Association from 1991-2000 and IAAF Council Member from 1995-1999.
“Being the Indonesian Athletics Federation (PASI) Chief, Bob Hasan has dedicated himself to the world of Track and Field for more than 40 years. During his term in office he cared for the underprivileged Federations in term of expenses.
“It was through Bob Hasan’s initiative and generosity that an IAAF Development Centre at Madya Stadium, Jakarta was possible. Besides this, he had contributed immensely in hosting many Asian competitions when there was no host.
“Indonesia and the other Asian Athletics fraternity will always remember him for his jovial disposition, kindness and generosity. His knowledge, professionalism and passion for what he does earned him recognition not only in Indonesia but also in Asia and international scene.
“On your behalf, we convey our condolences to his family and his federation. May his soul rest in peace.”