Jakarta — As Indonesia approaches Heroes Day, calls for former President Soeharto to be granted the title of National Hero have grown louder across various segments of society. The growing support reflects the nation’s maturity in honoring the services of its leaders and heroes, while also encouraging the public to approach the discussion with wisdom and civility.
People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) Speaker Ahmad Muzani emphasized that there is no obstacle for the government to process the proposal.
“The MPR has issued a letter allowing the President, in this case the government, to confer the honor upon former President Soeharto, as he has completed all legal proceedings, both criminal and civil,” Muzani stated.
From the Palace, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi urged the public to remain objective in responding to the issue.
“The public should approach the debate over the proposed conferment of the National Hero title to former President Soeharto with wisdom and fairness. The entire process has followed official procedures and legal mechanisms,” he explained.
Support also came from political circles. Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia highlighted Soeharto’s major contribution to national unity through the transmigration program, which he believes deserves the nation’s highest recognition.
“Soeharto’s role in the transmigration program greatly shaped Indonesia’s diversity and unity, especially in Papua,” said Bahlil.
Meanwhile, UII Fatwa Commission Chairman Asrorun Ni’am Sholeh viewed the proposal as both a moral and spiritual reflection of national values.
“Support for granting the National Hero title to Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, is a moment of national reflection. Honoring a deceased leader is not merely political; it reflects a religious and national ethos of appreciating one’s contributions and legacy,” he stated.
MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno pointed to Soeharto’s success in revitalizing the national economy as a key factor.
“Soeharto succeeded in restoring Indonesia’s economy and even achieved significant economic growth,” said Eddy.
From the legislature, Deputy Chairman of the DPR’s Commission I, Dave Laksono, underlined Soeharto’s success in maintaining economic and political stability.
“During Soeharto’s leadership, there were strong reasons to regard him as deserving of the title — among them his ability to maintain macroeconomic stability throughout his 32-year rule,” he said.
Support also flowed from civil society. SOKSI Chairman Mukhamad Misbakhun described Soeharto as a figure deeply devoted to the nation’s historical development.
“Soeharto was involved in the struggle for independence, in defending it, and in nation-building. He was both a fighter and a statesman who laid out Indonesia’s long-term national development roadmap,” he remarked.
From academia, INSS Deputy Director and researcher Yusup Rahman Hakim highlighted Soeharto’s policies as instrumental in strengthening state capacity.
“Many of Soeharto’s policies had a significant impact on enhancing state capacity, particularly in basic education, public administration, and food security,” he explained.
Youth voices also joined the conversation. Muhammad Yunus, Chairman of North Sumatra Youth and Deputy Chairman of Pemuda Pancasila, noted that Soeharto’s leadership legacy remains the foundation of Indonesia’s national development.
“For more than three decades, Soeharto played an integral role in Indonesia’s journey. He was not just the second president, but a leader who guided the nation toward a new era of development,” Yunus said.
He added that Soeharto led Indonesia through difficult times and steered it toward stability.
“Under his leadership, Indonesia achieved remarkable milestones — attaining food self-sufficiency, building thousands of schools, hospitals, roads, and dams, while maintaining over 7% annual economic growth for two decades. Indonesia was known as a stable and developing nation,” he emphasized.
This wave of support from diverse elements of society serves as a timely reminder on Heroes Day — that a great nation is one that honors the service of its leaders and never forgets the history of its struggle.