I Recorded My Will: Indonesian Students in Damascus Reflect on Assad’s Historic Fall

The Atmosphere in Damascus As news spread on that fateful Saturday evening, the streets of Damascus transformed into a ghost town. Residents, including many Indonesian students, hurriedly shut their doors and windows, bracing for the unknown. Tubagus Muhammad, one of the undergraduates, recalls the palpable tension in the air. “It felt like we were living in a movie,” he said. “You could hear the distant sounds of conflict, and it was surreal to think that our lives could change in an instant.” The atmosphere was charged with fear and anticipation. For many students, the thought of a rebel takeover was not just a political event; it was a personal threat. They had come to Syria to pursue their education, but now, their safety was in jeopardy. The Decision to Record Wills In the face of extreme uncertainty, many students made the harrowing decision to record their wills. Tubagus shared, “It was an emotional moment for me. I never thought I would have to think about my own mortality at such a young age.” This act of documenting their final wishes was not just about preparing for the worst; it was a way to assert control in a situation that felt overwhelmingly chaotic. Recording their wills also served as a form of expression. Many students wrote letters to their families, sharing their hopes, dreams, and regrets. It was a way to say goodbye, even if they were not ready to leave. “Writing my will felt like a release,” Tubagus explained. “I could express everything I wanted to say, and it gave me a sense of peace, even in such a turbulent time.” The Role of the Indonesian Embassy The Indonesian Embassy in Damascus played a crucial role in supporting its citizens during this crisis. With around 1,162 Indonesian citizens in Syria, the embassy worked tirelessly to ensure their safety and well-being. They provided updates on the situation and facilitated communication between students and their families back home. An embassy representative noted, “Our priority is the safety of our citizens. We are in constant contact with them, offering guidance and resources to help them navigate this challenging period.” The embassy’s efforts were a lifeline for many students, helping them feel less isolated during a time of fear.