I finished secondary school in 1963 and, after passing the admission test, was admitted to the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB). The prestige of ITB was my main reason for choosing the university. Why did I choose Civil Engineering? The answer was that the faculty was known for its “killer” lecturers. As my first backup in case ITB had fallen through, I also applied to the Medical School at Unpad and was accepted. On my mother's advice, I had in addition applied to the Textile Academy because the prerequisites were easy to fulfil. I was accepted there as well.

My choice of university major then, I must admit, did not reflect any clear life plan. Never did I envisage myself working as a civil engineer after completing my studies. I had indeed followed my urge to overcome a momentary challenge, while at the same time also making alternative arrangements.

My time as a university student at ITB was an important part of my life. It was a kaleidoscope of experiences for me. Between 1963 and 1965, campus life was as good as could be expected, but chaos reigned in our society. The volatile state of affairs affected our family, although I was fortunate enough to not have my studies interrupted.

Hazing at PMB

At the campus located in the Ganesha Complex that was ITB, I was reunited with my great friend from Kanisius College, Wimar Witoelar. He was studying electronics. Wimar and I became a team ever since we underwent the hazing rituals together at the Bandung University Students’ Association (PMB) and the orientation period at ITB, known as mapram.

PMB was an organization for university students in Bandung. It was founded in 1948 on the premise that it was oriented towards societal harmony, nationhood and Pancasila (the Indonesian state ideology). Although it engaged actively in the discourse on political affairs, PMB was essentially a place of recreation, or as the youth of today would say, a place for students to hang out. Its members were students from the top three universities in Bandung: ITB, the University of Padjadjaran (Unpad) and the Catholic University of Parahyangan (Unpar).

PMB members were known for their creativity and independence. We planned and funded all our activities ourselves.