Veteran photojournalist Julian Sihombing dies at 53

After years of battling cancer, Kompas photojournalist Julian Sihombing died at National University Hospital in Singapore at 2 a.m. Sunday local time. He was 53.

Throughout his career, Julian was known for his ability to capture awe-inspiring pictures, many of which had won him awards.

One of his most memorable photos was taken during the bloody riots in 1998 in Jakarta, when Trisakti University students rallied demanding the resignation of Soeharto.

Amid the chaos when soldiers attacked the demonstrators, Julian captured the image of Trisakti student Rizky Rahmawati Pasaribu, lying helplessly on the road with blood gushing from her head.

Julian's other memorable works include photos of former first lady Tien Suharto, the last days of Soeharto and the tenure of president Megawati Soekarnoputri.

According to kompas.com, Julian's wake will be held at a funeral home on Jl. Perkici, Bintaro, Tangerang, on Sunday night. (han/iwa)