In Memoriam: Abdul Rohim

Written by Wayne Kayler

Members of the JIS community around the world were saddened by the passing of Abdul Rohim, or, as many knew him, Coach Rohim.

Pak Rohim began his employment at JIS at the age of 14. The late Pak Benny, our tennis coach at the time, saw something in young Rohim and hired him as a ball boy on the JIS tennis courts. He was an eager lad ready to learn and work. His dedication to JIS, his self-confidence, his eye for detail, and his work ethic improved under Pak Benny’s watchful eye.

I arrived as Aquatics Director and swim coach in 1985. As luck would have it, Pak Rame Widartha was the only remaining member of the previous Aquatics staff. He provided me with a history, insights, and recommendations for the improvement of the Cilandak pool and its curricular, co-curricular, and competitive programs.

Thus, the newly revised pool program required additional staffing. That was when I first met Pak Rohim. He interviewed for the newly created job opening. I was impressed by this young man's confidence and composure. When asked why he wanted to work at the pool, he smiled ever so gently and replied, “I’m too old to be a ball boy.” 

That gentle smile is how I will always remember Rohim. That smile welcomed all who entered the Cilandak pool. That smile consoled, encouraged, and reassured a generation of students. Obat senyum. Smile medicine.  

When the Pondok Indah Elementary (PIE) campus opened, Pak Rame moved to PIE to be the Pool Manager. In a seamless transition, Rohim accepted the additional responsibilities of Cilandak Pool Manager. 

The Athletics Directors, Aquatics Directors, PE teachers, Aquadragon and Varsity Swim teams, coaches, and thousands of JIS students would come and go over the next 30 years. Pak Rohim and his obat senyum were always there to help each to adjust to and succeed at their new job or their new school at JIS.  

We honor and fondly remember Rohim, the gentle man, the teacher, the coach, and his obat senyum. 

Remembering Pak Rohim

“Pak Rohim was a gentle soul who contributed so very much to our swimming programs.” — Monica Greely, former High School Principal & Interim Head of School

“JIS was a better place for having Pak Rohim — for many a spiritual leader and for all an honest, warm-hearted teacher and friend.” — Mark Gray, former Aquatics & Athletics Director

“Pak Rohim was always a wonderful person to work with. His knack for encouraging children who were unsure in the water was second to none." — Anthony “Dicko” Dickinson, former High School Guidance Counselor 

“I learned a great deal from this man. A true JIS legend, deeply loved by his students.” — Jurrien Sietsma, former PE Teacher 

“A kind and gentle man with a passion for swimming.” — Linda Round, former JIS, Aquadragons & Varsity Swim Coach 

“Rohim was one of those people who added so much to the genial and caring ambience at JIS.” — Vivek Bami, Faculty Member 

“I nearly gave up swimming, but his kindness and gentleness kept me going.” — Divya Eapen, Varsity Swimmer

“Pak Rohim was one of a kind — always with a cheeky smile and encouraging us when we were struggling.” — Samantha Murray Williamson, Varsity Swimmer