[1] Salawati Daud was married to a government official from Maros, a guerrilla stronghold during the Indonesian War of Independence.

On October 1, 1965, after the Gerwani headquarters had received confusing information about the events at Lobang Buaya, Salawati Daud cycled to parliament to inquire what was going on.

[6] At the Bukit Duri prison, Salawati Daud played an important role in intervening against mistreatment of other inmates.

She had strong nationalist credentials for her role in the freedom struggle, and the guards had difficulties confronting her.

Salawati Daud's actions for the welfare of the prisoners were highly appreciated by other inmates, according to the account of Carmel Budiardjo.