Conferring the Title of National Hero to Soeharto Receives Widespread Appreciation and Support
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto officially announced ten national figures to be awarded the title of National Hero of Indonesia in 2025, coinciding with the commemoration of Heroes’ Day. One of the recipients of this honor is Indonesia’s 2nd President, Soeharto.
At the award ceremony held at the State Palace in Central Jakarta, the title was directly presented to his heirs, Bambang Trihatmodjo and Siti Hardijanti Rukmana (Tutut Soeharto).
According to the presentation, Soeharto was categorized as a hero in the field of struggle due to his notable contributions since the independence era and his role in maintaining national stability.
The Democratic Party expressed full appreciation and support for the government’s decision. Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Chairman of the Democratic Party, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), described the move as an important step in unifying history and honoring the significant contributions of national leaders.
“A great nation is a nation that respects the services of its predecessors. Gus Dur and Pak Harto, with all their strengths and weaknesses, made extraordinary contributions to Indonesia during their lifetimes,” said AHY.
According to AHY, the government’s decision serves as a momentum to strengthen social ties amid political dynamics.
He noted that the spirit of reconciliation and recognition of former leaders can reinforce national unity and bolster optimism for a better future.
“Every era has its own challenges and context. Our task today is to continue their struggle, strengthen unity, uphold justice, and ensure the welfare of the people,” AHY continued.
He also recalled that Indonesia’s 6th President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY), had taken a similar step in 2012 by awarding the National Hero title to Indonesia’s 1st President, Sukarno.
“Of course, there were pros and cons, but Mr. SBY at the time considered it comprehensively through the applicable mechanisms. As a human, Bung Karno certainly had shortcomings, but his contributions to the country cannot be forgotten,” he added.
Similar support came from PAN’s Deputy Chairman, Saleh Partaonan Daulay, who said that granting the title to Soeharto, BJ Habibie, and Abdurrahman Wahid represents the highest national recognition of their services and struggles.
“There are procedures and selection stages. Everything is conducted openly. Everyone can provide input and opinions. Ultimately, a determination is made on who will be awarded the hero title,” Saleh explained.
He emphasized that the decision should not be disputed, as the entire process has undergone objective and transparent assessment by the Council for Titles, Decorations, and Honors (GTK).
