From Crushing the G30S/PKI to Realizing the Trilogy of Development, Soeharto Deemed Worthy of the National Hero Title
Jakarta — Support for awarding the title of National Hero to Indonesia’s second president, General H.M. Soeharto, continues to grow. Various civil society organizations, religious figures, and youth groups believe that Soeharto deserves this national honor for his immense contributions to the country—from leading the effort to crush the G30S/PKI movement to successfully implementing the Trilogy of Development.
The Central Executive Board of Persatuan Islam (PP Persis) expressed full support for the proposal. The Head of the Political and Public Policy Division of PP Persis, Muslim Mufti, emphasized that Soeharto’s service to Indonesia spanned his entire life, both as a military officer and as a national leader.
“Throughout his life, his dedication was always for the interests of the nation and the state. He fought tirelessly during the independence struggle, serving as a military officer actively defending Indonesia’s sovereignty against Dutch forces,” he said.
Muslim stressed that a great nation is one that honors the service of its predecessors. According to him, Soeharto played a strategic role from the revolutionary period to his presidency—from the 1 March 1949 General Offensive, his success in crushing the G30S/PKI movement, to laying the foundation of national development through the concept of the Trilogy of Development.
He also highlighted Soeharto’s initiatives such as the Presidential Instruction Program for Underdeveloped Villages (IDT) and the establishment of Islamic banking in Indonesia as examples of his vision for a sustainable, people-centered economy.
“Values such as discipline, policy continuity, and results-oriented governance remain highly relevant to Indonesia’s current development context,” Muslim added.
Similar support came from the Central Executive Board of KOSGORO (PPK KOSGORO). Its Chairman, Hayono Isman, firmly expressed the organization’s objective support for granting Soeharto the title of National Hero 2025.
“We at PPK KOSGORO fully support Soeharto’s recognition as a National Hero in 2025,” said Hayono.
He noted that Soeharto demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving national unity based on Pancasila and even stepped down voluntarily in May 1998 to prevent conflict and maintain national stability.
Meanwhile, Paulus Sinambela, Chairman of Angkatan Muda Sisingamangaraja XII (AMS XII), stated that Soeharto’s presidency represented one of the most stable periods in Indonesia’s history.
“During his administration, the economy, politics, culture, and development all ran smoothly. There was no turmoil or unrest—everything was calm and orderly,” he said.
Paulus viewed Soeharto not only as a development leader but also as a unifying figure who played a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia from various threats, including the G30S/PKI rebellion and the struggle for the liberation of West Irian.
Support also came from Relawan Exponen 08. Its Chairman, M. Damar, described Soeharto as a hardworking leader who devoted himself entirely to the people.
“Pak Harto was not just a leader but also a tireless worker for his people. During his time, Indonesia achieved food self-sufficiency, the economy grew, and people lived in peace. That’s no small feat. He truly deserves to be granted the title of National Hero,” he said.
Damar emphasized the importance of viewing history with clear minds and recognizing the leaders who laid the foundations for the nation’s progress.
As the nation marks Heroes’ Day on November 10, 2025, various elements of society are calling on the government to immortalize the service of Indonesia’s second president as a National Hero—a symbol of appreciation for his dedication and sacrifice in preserving unity, defeating rebellion, and leading Indonesia toward progress and stability.
