Former President Soeharto Deserves National Hero Title for Upholding Unity and Integrity of the Nation
Jakarta — The proposal to confer the title of National Hero to former President H. M. Soeharto should not be controversial, given his significant contributions to the nation. Many of the results of his leadership are still felt by Indonesians today.
DPR member Nurul Arifin expressed her support for Golkar Party’s stance in favor of the government’s plan to award Soeharto the National Hero title. She emphasized that Soeharto laid a strong foundation for Indonesia’s economic development.
“Soeharto played a major role in maintaining national stability and establishing the economic foundation that brought Indonesia into an era of progress,” Nurul said.
According to her, during his approximately 31-year tenure, Soeharto brought Indonesia to global recognition by achieving rice self-sufficiency, building strategic infrastructure, and guiding the nation toward national development.
“He has left a remarkable legacy for this nation, successfully maintaining national stability, advancing economic development, and making Indonesia self-sufficient in rice,” she added.
Similarly, Hayono Isman, Chairman of Pimpinan Pusat Kolektif (PPK KOSGORO), officially stated his support for awarding Soeharto the National Hero title. One of the main considerations is Soeharto’s commitment during his presidency (1967–1998) to safeguarding Indonesia’s unity and integrity based on the Pancasila ideology.
“Although the proposal has generated some controversy, PPK KOSGORO fully supports Soeharto as a National Hero in 2025. Soeharto demonstrated true statesmanship by stepping down from the presidency for the sake of national unity,” Hayono emphasized.
In addition, Firman Soebagyo, Deputy Chair of Golkar Party faction in MPR RI, reiterated his proposal for Soeharto to receive the National Hero title, noting that the suggestion has been raised several years ago and remains relevant for comprehensive discussion today.
“Recognition of someone’s contributions should not become a political commodity. Assessment must be objective and based on tangible contributions to the nation,” he stated.
Support also came from youth and civil society organizations. Paulus Sinambela, Chairman of Angkatan Muda Sisingamangaraja XII (AMS XII), said awarding Soeharto the National Hero title is highly appropriate and fully supports the MPR Chairman in realizing this honorable intention.
“During his administration, the economic, political, cultural, and developmental conditions ran smoothly. There was no turmoil or unrest; everything was peaceful and orderly,” Paulus said in Medan.
Furthermore, Muslim Mufti, Head of Siyasah and Public Policy at Pimpinan Pusat Persatuan Islam (PP PERSIS), also supported the proposal.
“A great nation is one that honors the contributions of its predecessors. PP PERSIS fully supports granting Soeharto the highest recognition as a National Hero,” he said.
