Jakarta – Honoring the contributions of leaders and heroes is a hallmark of a great nation. This principle has once again come to the forefront amid growing support for granting the title of National Hero to Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, who is recognized for his monumental contributions to the nation—from the revolutionary era to the period of national development.
The Head of the Council for Libraries and Information of Muhammadiyah’s Central Board (PP Muhammadiyah), Dr. Makroen Sanjaya, emphasized that a leader’s legacy must be evaluated in a comprehensive and balanced manner.
“Muhammadiyah has studied his leadership as the second president. We assess the figure as a whole, not partially,” he stated.
He recalled that history records Soeharto’s active role since 1946, when he helped suppress a leftist rebellion, led the March 1 General Offensive, and became a key figure in resolving the 1965 G30S/PKI crisis.
According to Dr. Makroen, such a track record fulfills the legal criteria for heroism—marked by great sacrifice and tangible achievement for the nation.
“He led Indonesia to achieve food self-sufficiency, earning global recognition. That’s a measurable accomplishment acknowledged internationally,” he affirmed.
He further stated that a great nation is one that respects its leaders’ contributions rather than focusing solely on their flaws. Referring to the Javanese philosophy mikul dhuwur, mendhem jero, Dr. Makroen stressed that the virtues of past leaders should be upheld as inspiration for future generations.
“No human being is perfect. But if we only dwell on past mistakes, this nation will never move forward,” he explained.
A similar view was expressed by KH Arif Fahrudin, Deputy Secretary General of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) and a leading figure of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). He defined a hero as someone who makes great contributions and willingly sacrifices for the nation.
“A hero is one who gives everything they have for a single shared purpose—the advancement of the nation and the state,” he said.
Therefore, he considered it appropriate that a figure like Soeharto be nominated as a National Hero, given his significant role during the independence struggle, national development, and the maintenance of stability.
KH Arif reminded that a nation that fails to value its history will struggle to secure its future.
“If we cannot be grateful for the services of our founders and leaders, then by 2045 we won’t be ready to achieve Indonesia Emas,” he cautioned.
Both figures agreed that the younger generation must emulate the courage, sacrifice, and achievements of past leaders. Honoring heroes, they said, is not merely about remembrance but about continuing their legacy in building the nation.
With historical acknowledgment, a record of dedication, and accomplishments that benefited all levels of society, many believe that Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, truly deserves the title of National Hero. For a great nation is one that never forgets those who have devoted their strength, time, and lives to the glory of Indonesia.
