As a journalist, Suryopratomo never had political ambitions. Yet when the nation called on him to serve as the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Singapore, he accepted the responsibility with a deep sense of duty, determined to give his best for the country. In his role, he worked to build trust and confidence between the two nations. He maintained close, continuous communication not only with government officials, but also with business leaders, academics, and the wider community. It was far from easy, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. But he was able to bring together various elements of society to take part in the response effort.

His extensive network and warm approach made him a familiar figure among the Indonesian diaspora. He often joined cycling events around Singapore with fellow Indonesians, a gesture that deepened his bond with the community. Over time, he became affectionately known simply as “Tommy”. “All the ambassadors call me, Tommy,” he said. Even the President of Singapore addresses him by that nickname. “He is loved by everybody,” noted Retno LP Marsudi, Indonesia’s Foreign Minister (2014-2024).

I have known Tommy for decades, since the era of President Soeharto’s leadership and throughout all these years, he has remained unchanged in both his personal integrity and his capability as a patriotic senior journalist. He has always been present whenever the nation faced its highs and lows. I have never had any doubt about his loyalty to the country. More than just a journalist, Tommy is a true journalist-diplomat, one who knows no barriers and is able to navigate through even the toughest barricades in international diplomatic circles. His unwavering dedication is something I will always remember (General (Ret.) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Minister of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia).

Diplomats are a tribe, but it is a joy to embrace a colleague who brings skills, thinking and empathy from a different domain to enrich our work. Pak Dubes Tommy is one such gem. We have been very blessed by his tireless efforts to deepen Singapore-Indonesia relations, and his story is a fascinating read (HE Kwok Fook Seng, Ambassador of the Republic of Singapore to the Republic of Indonesia).

Ambassador Suryopratomo’s journey from award winning journalist and private-sector leader to hard hitting diplomat and selfless public servant exemplifies a unique blend of insight, intelligence, and compassion. In this memoir, “Tommy” shares both the stories and the wisdom that have guided his life and his service to his country (HE. Jonathan Eric Kaplan, United States Ambassador to Singapore 2021-2025).

• Judul: Call Me Tommy (edisi Bahasa Inggris)
• Penulis: Suryopratomo
• Editor: M Subhan SD
• Tahun: 2025 (Oktober)
• Halaman: xii + 211 hlm
• ISBN: 978-623-496-371-7
• Penerbit: Palmerah Syndicate kerjasama Selfietera