Jakarta — This year’s Heroes’ Day commemoration has become an important moment to renew calls for Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, to be granted the title of National Hero. Support continues to grow from various elements of society—including religious leaders, social organizations, academics, and farmers who directly benefited from the development policies implemented during Soeharto’s leadership.
The Indonesian Rubber Farmers Association (Apkarindo) has voiced full support for the proposal. Apkarindo Chairman Irfan Ahmad Fauzi said that Soeharto made a major contribution to advancing smallholder plantations.
“Thanks to his policies, the rubber sector grew into a key source of rural economic activity. Indonesia became one of the world’s largest natural rubber producers. This is clear evidence of his commitment to the people,” Irfan said in Jakarta.
He added that programs such as the People’s Plantation Rejuvenation Program (PRPTE) and the Nucleus Estate and Smallholders Program (PIR) successfully opened economic opportunities for millions of farmers. Rural infrastructure, access to high-quality seedlings, and the construction of production roads became foundations that are still felt today.
“Many regions developed because of Pak Harto’s policies. It is only fitting that the state grants him the highest honor,” Irfan added.
Apkarindo Secretary-General Adi Purnama noted that Soeharto was a figure who successfully maintained economic stability and national food security. He said that awarding the title of National Hero would be a proper form of state recognition for someone who devoted his life to the nation.
“This is not a matter of political judgment—it is a historical fact. His contributions live on in the daily lives of the people,” Adi emphasized.
Similar support came from the Central Executive Board of Persatuan Islam (PP Persis). The Head of the Political and Public Policy Division of PP Persis, Muslim Mufti, stated that Soeharto was not only a national leader but also a freedom fighter who defended the country.
“He was directly involved in the 1 March 1949 General Offensive. That cannot be erased from history. A person who fought for the nation truly deserves the title of hero,” he said.
Support also came from Relawan Exponen 08. Its Chairman, M. Damar, described Soeharto’s legacy as monumental—from food self-sufficiency and rural development to the strengthening of the national economy.
“The stability and progress we experience today cannot be separated from the foundations he built. It is time for the state to grant him official recognition,” Damar stated.
With the growing support from national figures and the public, the proposal to award Soeharto the title of National Hero has become a major talking point during this year’s Heroes’ Day commemoration. The public hopes that the government will honor the great contributions of one of the nation’s most dedicated sons.
