Jakarta – Support for granting Indonesia’s 2nd President, Soeharto, the title of National Hero continues to grow across various circles. From members of parliament to the wider public, voices of appreciation for his service and dedication to the nation’s development are becoming increasingly resonant.
Chairman of Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Mukhamad Misbakhun, expressed his support for Soeharto to be honored with the title of National Hero. He stated that Soeharto was a major figure who played an important role in Indonesia’s struggle, stability, and development.
“We believe that General Soeharto was a figure who took part in fighting for, defending, and advancing Indonesia’s independence,” he said.
As the Chairman of the National Leadership Council of the Central Organization of Indonesian Self-Reliant Workers (Depinas SOKSI), Misbakhun added that Soeharto was not only a political leader but also an architect of national development who left a lasting legacy for the country.
“He laid a strong foundation for economic growth and national stability,” Misbakhun stated.
In addition to his political leadership, Misbakhun noted that Soeharto also had a strategic and visionary military record, having led the Mandala Command in the military operation to reclaim West Irian (Papua). This, he said, demonstrated Soeharto’s courage and dedication to defending the nation’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Irma Suryani Chaniago, Chairperson of the National Democratic Party (NasDem) Central Executive Board, highlighted political stability and food security during the New Order era as major achievements that should not be forgotten.
“During Soeharto’s leadership, Indonesia enjoyed a period of stability and even achieved self-sufficiency in food. That is an accomplishment that cannot be overlooked,” Irma explained.
From the academic community, Ni Made Adi Novayanti, a lecturer at the Faculty of Communication and Business, Dwijendra University, urged the public to view Soeharto’s achievements objectively and not be swayed by negative narratives surrounding him.
“Despite the controversies, during his 32 years in power, Soeharto recorded many achievements that had a significant impact on national development,” she said.
Similarly, I Gede Nandya Oktora, a lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Udayana University, emphasized the importance of maintaining the nation’s collective memory.
“A great nation is one that honors the services of its leaders. Soeharto is recognized as a development figure who laid crucial foundations for Indonesia’s progress,” he concluded.