Habibie

Subekti, Koran Tempo

Habibie Afsyah, who lives with the effects of Becker Muscular Dystrophy, proves moment by moment that physical limitations are no obstacle to the sweet taste of success. Habibie was 8 months old when the doctors diagnosed him as having this gene mutation disorder that causes the body to shrink and become almost totally paralyzed.

At that age he had already experienced damage to his cerebellum that impaired his sensory-motor nerve functions, and his growth patterns continued to be abnormal. All through his childhood, when his friends played football, Habibie had to watch from his wheelchair.

Deeply frustrated, he vowed not to give up and continued to pursue his dreams. According to Habibie, the unconditional love and support of his mother, Mrs. Endang Setyadi, who has come to be known as “Habibie’s Mum”, has always inspired him to do the best he can. After graduating from senior high school, he took additional training and attended various seminars, which introduced him to the world of Internet marketing. Despite stiff competition from those who are able bodied, Habibie’s spirit has never diminished.

With only two fingers on his right hand still functional, Habibie plays multiple roles: as a teacher, a motivator and an Internet marketer. For this remarkable 23-year-old, success is in the nature of every human being, regardless of his or her physical condition or abilities.

“Do not give in to circumstances. If one has a strong will, under any circumstances, anyone can succeed,” Habibie says.

It is this strong spirit that Habibie wants to pass on to his disabled friends. Habibie educates, informs and motivates them by telling his life story and exhibiting his skills as an Internet marketer. Besides actively working as a trainer for disabled people, he regularly gives speeches about living with a disability at various seminars at universities and non-governmental organizations.

Despite his tight schedule, Habibie also manages to take time out to meet with fellow bloggers whom he has come to know from the virtual, on-line world. This small group meets regularly to share experiences, tips and laughs in his 3 x 4 meter square room.

CAPTIONS

1. Habibie visits his favorite place, a bookshop in Jakarta, in his spare time.
2. Habibie Afsyah in his office.
3. Habibie nimbly manipulates his computer mouse.
4. As a motivator and mentor, Habibie joins in during a discussion with an NGO in Jakarta.
5. Habibie meeting with his blogger friends at his house.
6. Habibie enjoys a relaxing time shopping with his mother at a mall in Jakarta.