Published at
15 Jan, 2025
Author
Gripastudio
Throughout my professional journey, people have often asked me, “What is your leadership style?” It’s a fair question, especially in today’s world where leadership models abound, each vying for prominence. As someone who has held senior leadership roles, I’ve found that leadership isn’t about following one rigid framework. It’s about embodying principles that resonate with your values, culture, and the people you serve.
For me, a Javanese proverb has been my compass: Ing ngarsa sung tuladha, ing madya mangun karsa, tut wuri handayani.
This timeless piece of wisdom was introduced by Ki Hajar Dewantara, a revered figure in Indonesian history and the father of national education. Born as Raden Mas Soewardi Soerjaningrat in 1889, he championed education reform and national independence. His leadership philosophy wasn’t confined to classrooms—it was a reflection of how he envisioned all forms of guidance and stewardship, from teaching students to leading communities and organizations.
A Proverb Rooted in Cultural Leadership
The proverb translates to: Ing ngarsa sung tuladha: In front, set an example. Ing madya mangun karsa: In the middle, build initiatives. Tut wuri handayani: From behind, empower and encourage.
These words weren’t just poetic musings. They encapsulated Ki Hajar Dewantara’s belief in tri-pusat pendidikan (three centers of education): the family, the school, and the community. He saw leadership as a dynamic, adaptable role that evolves based on context and the needs of those being led.
Initially used to guide educators, this proverb has since transcended its original purpose, becoming a broader framework for leadership, particularly within Indonesian society.
Layers of Leadership Wisdom
Let’s unpack this proverb and its relevance to leadership today.
Ing Ngarsa Sung Tuladha: In Front, Set an Example
Leadership begins with modeling the behavior you wish to see. It’s not about issuing commands from a high perch; it’s about being a living example of your values and vision.
This principle resonates with leaders who prioritize integrity. If you want your team to work hard, demonstrate diligence. If you expect collaboration, show empathy and openness. In my experience, nothing builds trust faster than consistency between what you say and what you do.
A modern parallel might be the concept of “leading by example,” but Ing ngarsa sung tuladha goes deeper. It’s not just about performance—it’s about embodying values in a way that inspires.
Ing Madya Mangun Karsa: In the Middle, Build Initiatives
Great leaders don’t just lead from the front; they step into the trenches, fostering creativity and collaboration. Being “in the middle” means engaging with your team, understanding their challenges, and co-creating solutions. This is where the magic of leadership happens. It’s about empowering others to take ownership of their work, recognizing that leadership is not a solo act but a collective endeavor.
In practice, this might look like brainstorming sessions where everyone’s voice matters or celebrating team successes rather than individual achievements. When people feel seen and heard, their motivation soars, and that’s when innovation flourishes.
Tut Wuri Handayani: From Behind, Empower and Encourage
Finally, true leadership is about letting go of control. This doesn’t mean abdicating responsibility—it means trusting your team to grow and succeed on their terms.
Tut wuri handayani teaches us to support quietly, from the sidelines. Think of it as being the wind beneath someone’s wings. As a leader, your role is to provide guidance, remove obstacles, and cheer from the background as others shine.
In my career, I’ve found this principle especially valuable during transitions. Whether mentoring emerging leaders or stepping back to allow a team to take the spotlight, this approach fosters resilience and independence.
A Leadership Model Tailored for Indonesia
What makes this leadership model distinctly Indonesian is its grounding in cultural values. It reflects:
Community-centric thinking: Leadership is not about the individual but about collective growth. Harmony and balance: It emphasizes adaptability—leading from the front, middle, or back as the situation demands. Respect for tradition: Rooted in Javanese philosophy, it reflects a deep understanding of human nature and relationships.
This proverb was born from a time when Indonesia was under colonial rule, and Ki Hajar Dewantara sought to empower his people through education. It’s no coincidence that the principles of leadership he championed are built on humility, empathy, and the importance of lifting others. In a globalized world, where Western models dominate, this approach stands out for its inclusivity and timeless relevance.
Rediscovering Our Roots
As Indonesians, we have a treasure trove of wisdom to guide us. Yet, many leaders overlook it, favoring imported frameworks. While there’s nothing wrong with learning from global thought leaders, we mustn’t forget our roots.
This proverb is more than a slogan for teachers—it’s a blueprint for leadership that is deeply Indonesian. It’s a reminder that effective leadership isn’t about adopting the latest trend but about staying true to timeless principles that resonate with our people.
A Call to Action
If you’re a leader—or aspire to be one—how might you embody Ing ngarsa sung tuladha, ing madya mangun karsa, tut wuri handayani in your own context?
Start small: • Set an example in your daily interactions. • Foster collaboration by listening more than you speak. • Empower others by trusting their abilities.
Leadership isn’t a title; it’s a practice. And with the wisdom of this proverb, it can also be a legacy.
So the next time someone asks about your leadership style, remember: perhaps the most effective answers are already embedded in the culture that shaped you. Just as Ki Hajar Dewantara believed, true leadership is not a position you hold—it’s the essence of how you live, inspire, and lead.
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