H. ABDUL KADIR KARDING, S.Pi., M.Si.: From a Water Analyst at FPIK UNDIP to a Driver of National Public Policy
A truly inspirational story comes from H. Abdul Kadir Karding, S.Pi., M.Si., an alumnus of FPIK Universitas Diponegoro who has proven that a scientific foundation from Fisheries studies can become a strong stepping stone for a brilliant career in national politics and public policy. Born in Palu, his life’s journey from the student benches of FPIK UNDIP to his current mandate as the Minister of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, and as a front-liner in advancing the alma mater as the Chairman of the Central Executive Board of the UNDIP Alumni Association (DPP IKA UNDIP), is a reflection of dedication, leadership, and a visionary outlook. He is a tangible testament to the synergy between technical maritime expertise and public advocacy and leadership skills.
H. Abdul Kadir Karding, S.Pi., M.Si.’s journey began at the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science (FPIK) Universitas Diponegoro, where he pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries and graduated in 1997. Within the campus environment, he not only honed his academic understanding of fisheries resource management but also discovered and developed his strong leadership talent. Long before he was known as a politician and statesman, the young Karding was actively involved in student organizations, serving as the Chairman of the FPIK Student Senate for the 1994-1995 period and later leading the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII) from 1995-1996. These experiences became his initial training ground for learning advocacy, organizational management, and how to build consensus amidst the dynamics of different groups.
The spirit of academic pursuit did not stop at the Bachelor’s level. He continued his Master’s studies in Public Administration at Universitas Diponegoro in 2009, a strategic step that equipped him with a deep understanding of government governance and public policy formulation. This combination of a specific background from FPIK UNDIP (fisheries science, which teaches natural resource management) and Public Administration (the science of government and public service) is what formed the unique foundation for his career later on.
The career journey of H. Abdul Kadir Karding, S.Pi., M.Si. is a narrative of a leader who continuously grew and expanded his influence. After completing his studies at FPIK UNDIP, he soon entered the world of politics and government. His experience began at the regional level, where he was active within the structure of the National Awakening Party (PKB). He served as Chairman of Commission E of the Central Java Provincial Council (DPRD) (1991-2001), Chairman of the PKB Faction in the Central Java DPRD (2001-2003), and held the position of Vice Chairman of the Central Java Provincial Council (2003-2009). This period was a crucial time for him to understand regional legislative dynamics and build grassroots networks.
His advancement to the national stage began in 2009. He was entrusted to become a Member of the House of Representatives (DPR RI) and held various crucial positions. His experience as Vice Chairman of the National Awakening Party Faction (2009-2014), Chairman of Commission VIII of the DPR RI (2009-2012), Vice Chairman of the Legislative Body (Baleg DPR RI) (2014-2015), and as an active member in Commission III and Commission VII of the DPR RI between 2014-2019 and 2019-2024, demonstrates his broad mastery of various aspects of state legislation and policy. He also served as Secretary-General of the DPP PKB (2014-2019), strengthening his role as one of the party’s pillars. All of these journeys were underpinned by the understanding he gained from fisheries science and public administration, enabling him to formulate policies that consider natural resource aspects and community welfare.
In his most recent role, H. Abdul Kadir Karding, S.Pi., M.Si. continues his national endeavors by holding the important mandate as the Minister of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers for the 2024-2025 period. In this position, he carries the significant responsibility of ensuring the rights and welfare of hundreds of thousands of Indonesian citizens working abroad are protected. His leadership is expected to bring fresh air to diplomacy and the protection of Indonesian migrant workers.
Not only in government, but his love for his alma mater also continues. He is entrusted to serve as the Chairman of the Central Executive Board of the UNDIP Alumni Association (DPP IKA UNDIP), leading the alumni of Universitas Diponegoro to continue contributing to the progress of the university and the nation. Through this position, he strives to strengthen synergy among alumni, encourage collaboration, and serve as a bridge between the needs of the alma mater and the potential possessed by the alumni. This is tangible proof of how FPIK UNDIP alumni can contribute in various fields, whether as technocrats, politicians, statesmen, or community leaders.
The dedication and contribution of H. Abdul Kadir Karding, S.Pi., M.Si. in the world of politics and public service have not gone unnoticed. He has received various awards that solidify his position as an influential and inspiring figure:
- 100 Influential Figures of Central Java (2019)
- Dedicated DPR Figure from Men’s Obsession Magazine (2018)
- Inspirational Figure Award from Jawa Pos Radar Kedu in the Young Reformist Politician Category (2015)
These awards are a testament to his hard work, integrity, and the positive impact he has made over many years of service in various sectors.