It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we remember Riza Sarasvita, the late Deputy of Rehabilitation at the National Narcotics Board of Indonesia. Dra. Riza was a remarkable leader, a compassionate therapist, and a tireless advocate for those affected by addiction.
Riza, is a distinguished member of the Board of Scientific Advisory ISSUP Indonesia National Chapter and has been a pivotal force in supporting the ISSUP Indonesia National Chapter. Her extensive expertise in substance use prevention and rehabilitation has significantly contributed to the chapter's initiatives and programs. Riza's dedication to advancing scientific research and evidence-based practices has bolstered the chapter's efforts in drug demand reduction. Her unwavering commitment to the cause continues to inspire and drive progress, making a profound impact on national efforts to address substance use issues.
Throughout her distinguished career, Riza dedicated herself to the mission of rehabilitation and recovery, believing deeply in the potential for every individual to reclaim their life from the grips of addiction. Her work was characterized by an unwavering commitment to human dignity and a relentless pursuit of effective, humane solutions to one of society’s most challenging issues.
Riza’s legacy is one of hope and transformation. Under her guidance, countless lives were touched and many paths to recovery were paved. Her innovative programs and compassionate approach not only provided essential support to those in need but also fostered a broader understanding and acceptance of rehabilitation within our communities.
Her colleagues and all who knew her admired Riza’s dedication, warmth, and tireless spirit. She was a beacon of kindness and a source of inspiration, always willing to go the extra mile to support and uplift those around her. Her passion for her work and her compassion for others will remain in our hearts and minds as a testament to her remarkable character and enduring impact.
As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the significant contributions Riza made to our society. Her vision and efforts have left an indelible mark on the field of rehabilitation and will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.
To her family, friends, and colleagues, we extend our deepest condolences. May you find solace in the knowledge that Riza’s life was one of profound service and love, and that her legacy will continue to live on through the lives she touched and the work she championed.
Rest in peace, Riza Sarasvita. Your dedication, compassion, and vision have made the world a better place, and you will be deeply missed.
Education:
2010 - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - Department of Clinical Pharmacology - University of Adelaide, South Australia
2005 - Master of Health Science (MHS)–Department of Mental Health, the Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
2001 – Magister of Science (MSc) in a Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Indonesia.
1989 - Psychologist – Faculty of Psychology, University of Indonesia.
Professional Timeline:
· June 18, 2021 – Present: Deputy of Rehabilitation, National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia.
· January 20, 2017 – June 17, 2021: Director of Strengthening Government Institution Agencies, National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia.
· December 2014 – January 20, 2017: Director, Strengthening Community Component Rehabilitation Institutions, National Narcotics Board of the Republic of Indonesia
· February 2009 – November 2014: Head of Sub-Directorate for Prevention and Handling of Substance Abuse, Ministry of Health, Republic of Indonesia.
· September 2016 – Present: Part-Time Lecturer, Professional Master's Program, Faculty of Psychology, Soegijapranata Catholic University, Semarang, Central Java
· August 2013 – 2016: Part-Time Lecturer, Faculty of Psychology, State Islamic University Jakarta.
· 1993 – January 2009: Psychologist at the Jakarta Drug Addiction Hospital (last position as Head of Education and Training Section).
· 2002 – 2007: Head of Research, Development, and Information Division, Provincial National Narcotics Board of DKI Jakarta.
Fellowships/Awards:
· 2018 Humphrey Distinguished Leadership Training Program – Department of State, USA.
· Satyalancana Karya Satya 20 Years Award, President of the Republic of Indonesia.
· Satyalancana Karya Satya 10 Years Award, President of the Republic of Indonesia.
· WHO Collaborating Centre Scholarship – Department of Pharmacology University of Adelaide, Australia, for PhD program 2005 – 2008.
· Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship in Drug Abuse Research at the Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA, 2003-2004 - Department of State, USA and US National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA).
· Indonesian-Australian Specialized Training Project (IASTP) Phase II Fellowship on HIV/AIDS Surveillance and Social Research Short Course at La Trobe University and Melbourne University, Melbourne, Australia from January – April 2001.
EXPERIENCES IN PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY
· 2021- present : Board of Scientific Advisory ISSUP INDONESIA National Chapter
· 2018 – present : Chairperson of Ethics Committee, Global Centre of Certification and Credentials for Addiction Professionals, Colombo Plan
· 2013 – 2019 : Global Trainer of Drug Advisory Program Colombo Plan on Drug Treatment & Rehabilitation Program
· 2009 – 2019 : Master Trainer of UNODC Global Network on Treatment and Rehabilitation Program
· 2011 – 2014 : Co-chair Task Force on Resource Mobilization of WHO Coordinating Council for the Implementation of the Global Strategy to Reduce the Harmful Use of Alcohol
· 2008 – present : Member of Indonesia HIV/AIDS Counselor Association
· 2005 – 2008 : Focal Point of Indonesia as a member of UNODC Global Network on Treatment and Rehabilitation Program majoring in Drug Treatment in Prison
· 2005 – present : Member of Honorary Board, Indonesia Clinical Psychologist Association,
· 2002 – 2004 : Indonesian Representative of Regional United Nation Task Force on HIV/AIDS & Injecting Drug User Vulnerability (under UNDCP)
