Soeharto Deserves the Title of National Hero for His Contributions to Indonesia’s Development

Jakarta – The commemoration of National Heroes Day 2025 has once again sparked public discussion about figures who made significant contributions to the nation, including Indonesia’s 2nd President, Soeharto. A number of national figures believe that his role and contributions merit recognition as a National Hero.

Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Eddy Soeparno, responded to the proposal to award Soeharto the title of National Hero. Eddy stated that Soeharto made major contributions, notably in restoring and significantly improving Indonesia’s economy.

“Soeharto was one of the heads of state who rendered great service to Indonesia. During his administration, he succeeded in restoring the nation’s economy,” said Eddy.

Meanwhile, researcher and Deputy Director of the Intelligence and National Security Studies (INSS) institute, Yusup Rahman Hakim, emphasized that the contributions of Indonesia’s 2nd President should be understood through the long-term impact of his development policies, rather than through politically divided perceptions.

Yusup explained that Soeharto’s strategic policies had a profound impact on strengthening state capacity, particularly in basic education, governance, and food security.

“The massive school construction programs in the early 1970s, the reformulation of development planning structures, and the agricultural modernization in the 1980s were all part of the nation-building process that laid the social and economic foundations of today’s Indonesia,” he explained.

According to Yusup, the expansion of access to basic education at that time encouraged greater social mobility and led to higher literacy rates among the population.

“Meanwhile, the achievement of food self-sufficiency in the mid-1980s strengthened rural economic independence and improved farmers’ welfare,” Yusup added.

It is well known that Indonesia’s 2nd President, Soeharto, is remembered as the Father of Development for his success in laying the foundations of the nation’s economy and infrastructure—an enduring legacy for Indonesia.

Public assessments of Soeharto’s legacy are largely based on his tangible contributions and the long-term impact of his policies. From economic recovery to advancements in education and food security, Soeharto’s development legacy remains a vital cornerstone of Indonesia’s progress today. [-RWA]