Prof. Dr. dr. Idrus A. Paturusi, Sp.B., Sp.OT (K) is an Indonesian orthopedic surgeon who is also a Professor of Medical Sciences. He was trusted as Rector of Unhas for two periods, from 2006 to 2014. This figure who was born on August 31, 1950, is widely known for his dedication and contribution to various humanitarian actions.
Volunteering is the calling of his life. During the earthquake in Lombok, Prof. Idrus led a medical team of 21 people to assist the disaster victims. Upon arrival at the location, he and his team quickly monitored the availability of the operating room and worked in coordination with the NTB Provincial Hospital in Mataram, where medical assistance was centralized.
When malnutrition hit Agats in Asmat, Papua in January 2018, Prof. Idrus and the Unhas Team were also immediately engaged in conducting health checks. The same thing happened during the tsunami in Aceh and Nias on December 26, 2004. He arrived at the disaster site as the National Coordinator of Medical Assistance for Aceh, North Sumatra, and Nias. Within three months, he managed to re-function Zainoel Abidin Hospital, Banda Aceh, which was damaged by the disaster.
In addition to his concern for natural disasters, Prof. Idrus is also not afraid to help in conflicts of violence. He was involved in the Poso, Ambon, and North Maluku conflicts that claimed the lives of thousands of people during 1999-2000. Similarly, when the fire was raging in East Timor, he who was at that time the Head of the Medical Team for Refugee Management treated, medicated, and operated on the victims on a daily basis. His experience in conflict made him more concerned about humanitarian missions.
Prof. Idrus continues to lead medical teams in the regions. According to him, in a disaster situation, there should be no delay and all available resources should be optimized. There is a lot of concrete evidence that shows his dedication to humanity. He is a real doctor and does not hesitate to be deployed directly to disaster or conflict sites as a volunteer. He continues to help sincerely in his old age.
Kumara Tungga Dewa, S.S.
Editor : Ishaq Rahman, AMIPR
