JAKARTA — The government, along with various elements of society, has appealed to the public to avoid provocation.
This is related to the call to hold a demonstration regarding the rejection of the awarding of the title of National Hero to the 2nd President of the Republic of Indonesia, General HM Soeharto.
This invitation was conveyed to further maintain national stability and prevent potential disturbances to public order in society.
The government emphasized that the title had gone through a series of official processes as stated in Presidential Decree (Kepres) Number 116/TK/2025 which was stipulated on Heroes’ Day, November 10, 2025.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi emphasized the importance of continuing to prioritize a wise stance in responding to the diverse public reactions to the country’s decision.
“Let us realize the values of struggle by maintaining security and order together,” he said.
“Don’t be easily provoked by information that isn’t necessarily true,” he said.
He added that the nation’s biggest challenge today is how all parties can work together to maintain unity amidst the rapid digital currents and differing views.
“Today’s heroes are those who are able to maintain peace, spread kindness, and strengthen the spirit of mutual cooperation in their respective environments,” he added.
The Chief of the Indonesian National Police, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, emphasized the readiness of all security forces to maintain a conducive national situation.
“We have prepared anticipatory measures to ensure the situation remains safe and peaceful,” he said.
“However, the most important thing is the active role of the community in rejecting provocation and spreading the message of brotherhood,” he said.
He invited the public to use the momentum of Heroes’ Day as a way to strengthen the spirit of unity.
“Let’s work together to maintain peace, honor the services of our heroes, and continue their struggle by maintaining security and brotherhood in the community,” he stressed.
Support for the awarding of the title also came from various organizations, including Muhammadiyah.
Dr. Makroen Sanjaya, Chairman of the Library and Information Council of PP Muhammadiyah, considers Soeharto as a figure who has a significant track record in the nation’s history.
He mentioned Soeharto’s role in the General Offensive of March 1, 1949 and his success in promoting Repelita and rice self-sufficiency as forms of contribution that had a major impact on national development.
The government again called on the public to respect state decisions, maintain calm, and avoid all forms of provocation in order to prioritize national stability and national unity. (*)
