Farewell to Dr. Arqam Azikin, an Inspirational Figure Who Left a Positive Legacy

Renowned academic and national political analyst, Dr. Arqam Azikin, passed away in the early hours of Monday (December 2) at 4:30 AM WITA at Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital in Makassar, South Sulawesi. He succumbed after battling an illness for nearly a year.

"Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji'un. We have lost a dear friend, brother, and one of the nation's finest academics. Farewell, Arqam Azikin," read a widely circulated condolence message on WhatsApp groups, expressing profound grief over the loss of a figure known for his significant contributions to politics and national affairs.

Dr. Arqam had undergone extensive medical treatment in various hospitals. He was previously treated at RSPAD Gatot Subroto in Jakarta and received medical care in Malaysia before being transferred to Wahidin Hospital as his health continued to deteriorate.

He leaves behind a wife and one child. His body was brought to his family home in Parepare and was laid to rest on Monday afternoon following the Asar prayer.

Educational Background and Academic Contributions

Dr. Arqam Azikin was born and raised in Parepare, where he completed his primary and secondary education. He later pursued higher education at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Hasanuddin University (Unhas), majoring in Communication Studies. He earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in 1984.

His academic journey did not stop there—he went on to complete his doctoral studies at the Faculty of Law, Unhas. During his student years, he was an active member of various organizations, serving on the FISIP student senate, the Hasanuddin University Student Press Council, and as part of the National Presidium of the Indonesian Student Press Association (PPMI).

In his academic career, Dr. Arqam served as the Director of the Center for Political and Defense Studies at the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Muhammadiyah University of Makassar (Unismuh). His sharp insights into political and national issues made him a sought-after speaker at national-level discussions and seminars.

Dr. Arqam's passing has left a deep void for his family, colleagues, and students who were fortunate to learn from him. As an academic, he was tireless in advocating for the importance of political and national studies as pillars of nation-building.

His final resting place is in his hometown of Parepare, where family, friends, and the community bid him a heartfelt farewell. "Farewell, Mr. Arqam. Your legacy of thought and dedication will live on," said a colleague.

Dr. Arqam Azikin will forever be remembered as an intellectual devoted to the progress of the nation.