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Gordon Tobing (1925–1993) was an Indonesian singer of folk songs, particularly those in the Batak language. Born to a Batak family in Medan, North Sumatra, Tobing moved to Jakarta in 1950 and began working in the entertainment industry. While with Radio Republik Indonesia, he participated in an Indonesian cultural mission to the 4th World Festival of Youth and Students. Over the remainder of his life Tobing was included in numerous similar missions, ultimately travelling to five continents and performing for President Suharto of Indonesia, Crown Prince Akihito of Japan, and other world leaders.Photograph: Tati Studios, Jakarta; restoration: Chris Woodrich