By: Erick Surya
The 2025 Heroes’ Day commemoration took place in an orderly and meaningful manner across Indonesia. This annual moment once again served as a national reflection on the struggles of the heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence.
This year, the government, through the Ministry of Social Affairs, invited all members of society to pause their activities for one minute at exactly 08:15 WIB on November 10, 2025, to observe a moment of silence in honor of the heroes.
Social Minister Syaifullah Yusuf emphasized that the one-minute silence is not merely a symbolic ceremony, but a collective awareness of the nation to remember the sacrifices of its fighters. He encouraged all citizens, wherever they are, to participate.
The “moment of silence” was part of a comprehensive series of activities organized by the Ministry of Social Affairs for the 2025 National Heroes’ Day Commemoration. The events began in the morning with the National Cemetery Ceremony at the Kalibata Main Heroes’ Cemetery.
President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, attended as the Ceremony Inspector, demonstrating the government’s commitment to continuously honor the services of the heroes who greatly contributed to the nation.
At the same time, a Sea Flower Scattering Ceremony was held in Jakarta Bay as a tribute to heroes who fell at sea. This activity symbolizes appreciation for the boundless struggles of those who risked their lives to safeguard Indonesia’s sovereignty.
In addition, the government held a National Heroes’ Title Award Ceremony at the State Palace, marking the highest recognition for individuals who made significant contributions to the nation.
Not only at the national level, local governments and various institutions also held similar activities. All institutions, governmental and non-governmental alike, conducted flag ceremonies at 08:00 local time. During each ceremony, the principal read the address from the Minister of Social Affairs as guidance for reflection on Heroes’ Day 2025.
For institutions unable to conduct ceremonies in person, the Ministry of Social Affairs broadcasted the National Cemetery Ceremony via TVRI and official channels, ensuring that all citizens could still participate solemnly.
The government also encouraged citizens to fly the Red and White Flag at full mast at their homes throughout November 10, 2025. This act symbolizes unity and a spirit of nationalism that connects all layers of society regardless of background.
Commemorations across various regions added further meaning to this national moment. In Southeast Maluku Regency, the local government held a flower-scattering ceremony at the Rudira Jaya Heroes’ Cemetery in Ohoijang Watdek Village, Kei Kecil District.
The ceremony was led by the Commander of Lanud Dominicus Dumatubun, Lt. Col. Pas Firasat Amansyah, serving as Ceremony Inspector. In his message, he reminded the younger generation that today’s struggle is no longer fought with weapons but through contributions and tangible work for the nation’s progress.
This message aligns with the spirit of Heroes’ Day, emphasizing that heroism can be manifested through various forms of service. The government sees public participation across regions as proof that the spirit of struggle remains alive. In the context of modern times, collective awareness to honor the heroes’ sacrifices forms a vital foundation for building national character.
Meanwhile, in Surabaya, artists creatively commemorated Heroes’ Day. The Surabaya Arts Activists Forum (FPKS) held a concert themed One Path of Struggle: Celebrating Heroes’ Day, Celebrating W.S. Rendra. The event featured artists across disciplines presenting works themed on struggle and unity, paying tribute to the spirit of the City of Heroes.
Musician and event initiator Sastra Harijanto Tjondrokusumo stressed that the spirit of heroism must be kept alive through art that fosters patriotism. Through music and dance, society is reminded not to forget the roots of the struggle that shaped the nation’s identity. The event also strengthened solidarity among artists and inspired the younger generation to fill independence with creativity and positive contributions.
The government views such community initiatives as evidence that Heroes’ Day is not merely an annual ceremony but a moment to strengthen national values. The orderly and meaningful commemorations across Indonesia demonstrate the tangible spirit of national unity.
The nationwide moment of silence at 08:15 WIB marked the peak of national reflection. During that one minute, all Indonesians united in prayer and gratitude for the heroes’ sacrifices. The moment of silence became a spiritual space for the nation to reaffirm its commitment to safeguard independence and strengthen the unity of the Republic of Indonesia.
Through orderly, meaningful, and widely participated commemorations, Indonesian society confirms that the spirit of heroism remains undimmed. The government appreciates all parties who participated in maintaining decorum and making the 2025 Heroes’ Day a moment of national inspiration.
With the successful execution of simultaneous, orderly, and meaningful events, Heroes’ Day 2025 left a lasting impression on all Indonesians. The spirit of the ancestors’ struggle continues in the form of tangible service — building the nation, maintaining unity, and reaffirming love for the homeland as a true tribute to the selfless heroes who fought for Indonesia’s independence.
Author is a contributor to Pertiwi Institute