JAKARTA -- Renowned Indonesian economist Rizal Ramli died in Jakarta on Tuesday (2/1/2024), at 19.30 at the age of 69 years. Rizal Ramli died while being treated at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM), Jakarta, due to illness.

Rizal Ramli's close relative, Adhi Massardi, revealed that the former Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs died due to diabetes and complications. He has been treated at RSCM since a month ago.

Previously, a number of figures had also expressed condolences for the death of Rizal Ramli. One of them is Mahfud MD.

Former Minister of Finance Chatib Basri also expressed his condolences. Chatib admitted that he had known Rizal since his student days. He called Rizal Ramli a brilliant economist and persistent activist.

"When I was in government the criticism was no joke. But I knew it was needed for a better Indonesia," said Chatib.

Rizal Ramli -- who was born in Padang, West Sumatra, on December 10, 1054 -- is known as a critical and harsh figure towards the government. Rizal has repeatedly issued sharp criticism regarding the economic problems facing this country.