progresifjaya.co.id, JAKARTA – This nation is in mourning as one of its greatest daughters has passed away. Meriyati Roeslani Hoegeng, born on June 23, 1925, and the life partner of Jenderal Pol Hoegeng Iman Santoso, passed away on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.

Jenderal Pol Hoegeng Iman Santoso was the 5th Kapolri (1968-1971), known and remembered as the bravest and most honest police officer at a time when the majority of government officials were corrupt. Eyang Merry married Jenderal Pol Hoegeng from 1946 until his death in 2004.

Throughout his life, Jenderal Pol Hoegeng was known for his integrity. He was the epitome of an honest police officer. However, not many realize that what Jenderal Pol Hoegeng demonstrated was inextricably linked to the role of Mery – familiarly known as Eyang Meri.

Indeed, throughout her career, Eyang Meri’s husband preferred a backroom position, far from basking in the shadows of power. She nurtured, guarded, and maintained Jenderal Pol Hoegeng’s integrity within the quiet confines of family.

Despite living in the power of office and facing the potential for temptation, bribery, or gratuities, Eyang Merry remained undeterred. The diamond ring allegation in Medan in the late 1950s is proof of this.

Kapolri Jenderal Pol Listyo Sigit Prabowo kisses Eyang Meri’s hand during her visit.

The openly slanderous accusations deliberately leveled at the public to undermine the integrity of the Hoegeng family were handled intelligently, decisively, and openly without compromise. Everything was expressed honestly and truthfully, without any pretense.

This exemplary attitude was also demonstrated by some of her rare, small decisions. When Jenderal Pol Hoegeng was appointed Head of the Immigration Office, Eyang Meri decided to close her flower shop. She was conscious of distancing herself from conflicts of interest, even if it resulted in the loss of a source of income.

As the wife of the Kapolri, Eyang Meri never held a Bhayangkari structural position. For her, her husband’s public office was not a privilege for the family.

Eyang Meri’s exemplary chapter has now come to an end. Her remains were laid to rest at Giritama Non-Public Cemetery (TPBU), Tonjong, Bogor, West Java, Wednesday, February 4, 2026. However, the values and exemplary legacy she left during her lifetime are believed to be timeless. She will always be a role model for future generations. RIP Eyang Meri. (Bembo)

Kapolri Jenderal Pol Listyo Sigit Prabowo when visiting Eyang Meri.