Johnson S Panjaitan, founder of the Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association (PBHI), has passed away.

The sad news was confirmed by a senior activist.

“Johnson was in critical condition for the last 4-5 days and passed away this morning at 8:30 AM,” the activist stated.

The activist remembered Johnson as a brave activist and lawyer who defended justice for human rights violation victims.

He recounted that when Johnson served as General Chairman of PBHI, his office became a target of violent acts. “His office was once raided and his car was shot at,” the activist said.

Despite this, the activist stated that such terror did not diminish Johnson’s courage. The advocate continued to stand against injustice.

According to the activist, Johnson was a figure who loved justice and fought for it on behalf of victims.

He also treated his friends fairly. “The only unfair attitude Johnson had was perhaps toward himself. He didn’t get enough rest,” the activist shared.

“Rest in peace, Brother Johnson,” he added.

PBHI Statement

Meanwhile, through an official statement, PBHI described Johnson as a steadfast defender of human rights values and social justice. He made significant contributions in fighting for the rights and welfare of human rights violation victims.

“Including his involvement in advocacy for cases in Timor Leste post-conflict, which demonstrated his cross-border commitment to international causes,” the statement read.

PBHI stated that Johnson’s dedication and courage serve as an example for the next generation fighting for human rights in Indonesia and Southeast Asia.

“May the fighting spirit of the deceased continue to live on in every effort to defend the oppressed,” PBHI wrote.

Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association

The Indonesian Legal Aid and Human Rights Association (PBHI) is a prominent non-governmental organization founded in the 1990s to advocate for human rights and provide legal aid in Indonesia. It emerged during a period of political repression to defend victims of injustice and has been a crucial voice in the country’s transition to democracy.

PBHI

I am unable to provide a summary for “PBHI” as it is not a recognized place or cultural site. The acronym could refer to various organizations, such as the Indonesian Health Legal Aid Foundation, but it does not correspond to a specific geographical or cultural landmark with a known history.

Timor Leste

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, is a Southeast Asian nation occupying the eastern half of the island of Timor. It has a complex history of Portuguese colonization for over 400 years, followed by a violent Indonesian occupation after Portugal’s withdrawal. The country finally achieved full independence in 2002 after a UN-administered transition period, making it one of the world’s youngest nations.