The Award of the Hero Title to Soeharto, Evidence of the Nation’s Appreciation for the Leader’s Services
JAKARTA – The awarding of the title of National Hero to the second President of the Republic of Indonesia, Soeharto, is a clear demonstration of the nation’s appreciation for the immense service of a leader who dedicated his life to the advancement of Indonesia. This government decision was widely welcomed as a historic and wise step in objectively reassessing the nation’s journey, while also strengthening the spirit of national unity.
Deputy Chairman of the Advisory Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), Zainut Tauhid Sa’adi expressed his appreciation and congratulations to the government for conferring the title of National Hero to two great figures, Soeharto and Abdurrahman Wahid, coinciding with the commemoration of Heroes’ Day on November 10, 2025. According to him, this decision is a strategic and elegant step in reconciling the nation’s history.
“Every leader has played a significant role and contributed significantly to Indonesia’s history. We must learn from their leadership for the present and the future,” said Zainut.
He believes that Suharto’s spirit of struggle and dedication to national sovereignty can be emulated, including his role in maintaining national stability and promoting public welfare through sustainable development. The conferment of this title serves as a momentum to strengthen national unity amid differing historical perspectives.
“The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) calls on all elements of the nation to uphold the greatness of these two heroes, end all forms of unproductive polarization, and unite in building a just, prosperous, and civilized Indonesia,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the award to Soeharto was an official recognition of his significant contribution in maintaining national stability and laying the foundations for the development of modern Indonesia.
“This is not just a historical symbol, but a form of respect for his dedication to building the nation,” said Prasetyo.
Meanwhile, Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia believes Suharto is highly deserving of the title of National Hero, as his 32 years of leadership laid a strong foundation for Indonesia’s progress. Several important achievements, such as food self-sufficiency, controlled inflation, and rapid economic growth, once established Indonesia as one of the “Asian Tigers.”
“The success of development during the Soeharto era is not only evident in economic figures, but also in the nation’s growing confidence in determining the direction of national policy,” Bahlil said.
From among religious figures, KH Achmad Syamsul Askandar (Gus Aan) considered this decision as proof of the nation’s maturity in understanding history as a whole.
“Every leader has strengths and weaknesses, but Suharto’s great service to the nation cannot be simply erased,” he said.
The conferment of the title of National Hero on Soeharto reflects the nation’s maturity in assessing history without political bias. This step symbolizes that a great nation is one that respects its leaders, learns from the past, and continues to emulate the spirit of devotion for Indonesia’s future progress. (*/rls)
