Jakarta — Growing support continues to emerge for the proposal to bestow the title of National Hero upon Indonesia’s 2nd President, Soeharto, who is widely regarded as having made monumental contributions to the nation’s rise and progress.
History records that Soeharto led Indonesia for more than three decades, from 1967 to 1998, a period marked by significant transformation in various sectors. His name has been included among those proposed to receive the title of National Hero. Expressions of support for this recognition continue to flow from politicians, academics, community leaders, civil society organizations, and legislators.
Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) Firman Subagyo stated that Soeharto truly deserves the title—not for political reasons, but out of honesty and respect in reading history and acknowledging his great contributions to Indonesia’s resurgence.
“Soeharto deserves to be granted the title of National Hero. This is not about politics, but about our honesty in interpreting history and honoring someone who helped lift Indonesia to its feet,” said Firman Subagyo.
Beyond the economic sector, Soeharto is also recognized for his positive impact in the fields of education, agriculture, and infrastructure. According to Firman, all of Soeharto’s development initiatives were the result of careful long-term planning intended to benefit future generations.
“As part of the next generation, I believe Soeharto is more than worthy of being honored as a National Hero,” he added.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia also expressed support, suggesting that all former presidents of Indonesia should be considered for the National Hero title.
“If possible, we suggest that all our former presidents—our national figures—be considered for the National Hero title,” said Bahlil in Jakarta.
He added that other national leaders, such as Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur) and B.J. Habibie, also made invaluable contributions to the nation and therefore deserve similar recognition.
“Gus Dur gave his best for this country. We also think he should be considered a National Hero. The same goes for Pak Habibie and others,” he noted.
Meanwhile, support also came from the Central Executive Board (DPP) of Angkatan Muda Sisingamangaraja XII (AMS XII). Its Chairman, Paulus Sinambela, highlighted that Soeharto’s leadership brought stability and order across various aspects of national life.
“During his administration, Indonesia experienced stability in its economic, political, cultural, and developmental sectors,” said Paulus Sinambela.
The growing momentum behind the call to recognize President Soeharto as a National Hero reflects a collective acknowledgment of his enduring legacy. Given his extraordinary contributions to Indonesia’s unity, development, and stability, many believe it is time that this honor be formally conferred upon him. [*]