Jakarta — A solemn and respectful atmosphere marked this year’s Heroes’ Day commemoration, coinciding with the conferral of the National Hero title upon Indonesia’s 2nd President, Soeharto. Various segments of society expressed appreciation and gratitude to the government, viewing this decision as a sign of the nation’s growing maturity in honoring the contributions of its past leaders. The awarding process proceeded safely, peacefully, and was received with full respect by people across Indonesia.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi emphasized that President Prabowo Subianto’s decision to bestow the title was a form of the state’s respect for Soeharto’s immense contributions to the country.
“The government is granting the national hero title to former President Soeharto as an act of respect toward a great national figure,” he stated.
From the parliament, NasDem Party legislator Rachmat Gobel praised the government’s move, noting that it helps unify the nation’s perspective on the legacy of its past leaders.
“Every person has weaknesses and flaws, but Mr. Harto’s contributions to this nation and state were enormous,” Rachmat said.
Support also came from Nahdlatul Ulama circles. East Java NU youth leader KH Achmad Syamsul Askandar (Gus Aan) remarked that a great nation is one that respects its history and its figures.
“As an ordinary human being, he could not be free from mistakes or shortcomings. Even President Gus Dur once said that President Soeharto made tremendous contributions to this nation, even though his faults were also significant,” he noted.
Further appreciation came from West Nusa Tenggara, where Dr. TGKH. Muhammad Zainuddin Atsani, Chairman of the Nahdlatul Wathan Central Board (PBNW) and grandson of a National Hero, reaffirmed Soeharto’s role in defending Indonesia’s sovereignty.
“Soeharto is remembered for his role in the 1 March 1949 General Offensive in Yogyakarta, which was vital in defending Indonesia’s sovereignty from the Dutch,” he said.
Former Chairman of Muhammadiyah, Din Syamsuddin, considered the government’s decision highly appropriate as an expression of respect for Soeharto’s dedication during his three-decade presidency.
“For 30 years of his leadership as president, I knew for certain that he was a leader committed to building the nation and the state,” Din stated.
The National Presidium of BEM PTNU Se-Nusantara, represented by Achmad Baha’ur Rifqi, also voiced strong support from the younger generation.
“Soeharto is known as a leader who played a key role in creating national stability and advancing development,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Mochamad Imamudinussalam, Executive Director of the ToBe Institute, said that the conferral reflects an objective attitude and the maturity of Indonesia’s democracy.
“Soeharto’s legacy includes programs such as food self-sufficiency, rural infrastructure development, technological progress, improving farmers’ welfare, and pro-people economic policies. He remains an integral part of the republic’s journey,” he explained.
Amid the peaceful and respectful Heroes’ Day atmosphere, public appreciation for the government highlighted Indonesia’s growing democratic maturity, magnanimity, and steadfastness in honoring its historical struggle and the figures who shaped it.