By: Andhika Pratama
The commemoration of Heroes Day on November 10 serves as a moment of reflection for the Indonesian nation—a reminder of the importance of preserving unity and cohesion as the foundation of national life. This commemoration is not merely a yearly ceremony or flag-raising ritual, but a reflective momentum to reaffirm the spirit of nationalism, honor the sacrifices of heroes, and internalize the values of struggle amid increasingly complex modern challenges.
The Secretary of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) of Sukabumi Regency, KH. Ujang Hamdun, called on all educational institutions and organizations to emulate the spirit of the nation’s heroes by maintaining unity and solidarity.
Heroes Day reminds us of the high price of the independence we now enjoy. The Battle of November 10, 1945, in Surabaya symbolizes the courage and solidarity of Indonesians from diverse ethnic, religious, and social backgrounds who united to confront colonial forces. The spirit of cooperation, sacrifice, and resilience became the main strength that led the nation to independence. Today, that same spirit must be revived in a modern context—to preserve the nation’s integrity against the threats of division, social polarization, and national disintegration.
Various government institutions, including the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), have emphasized that Heroes Day should serve as a moment to reinforce the spirit of togetherness and avoid any actions that could divide the nation. The Secretary General of the Ministry of ESDM, Rida Mulyana, stated that the spirit of heroism today lies in fighting ignorance, combating poverty, and preventing division that undermines national values.
Similar messages have been echoed through Heroes Day events across the country. The Government of Singkawang City, for example, adopted the theme “The Spirit of Heroes for the Nation’s Future: Combating Poverty and Ignorance,” highlighting the importance of unity and solidarity as the nation’s social capital in facing global challenges. The noble values of the heroes are expected to inspire the younger generation to fill independence with dedication and contribution.
In today’s context, the greatest challenge to unity no longer comes from armed invaders, but from the rapidly evolving social dynamics of the digital era. Social media, which should serve as a space for sharing information and inspiration, is too often misused to spread disinformation, hate speech, and divisive content.
Thus, maintaining unity in the digital era also means upholding ethics in digital engagement. Young people, as the largest group of internet users, must be at the forefront of spreading positive information, rejecting provocation, and respecting differences of opinion.
For a large nation like Indonesia, unity is not merely a moral ideal—it is also a national security strategy. Strong social cohesion is the first line of defense against non-military threats, from radicalism and disinformation to foreign interference.
In the realm of international relations, a united nation commands greater respect and holds stronger bargaining power on the global stage. Conversely, a nation weakened by internal conflict becomes vulnerable to external influence and loses its sense of direction. Therefore, strengthening unity is a prerequisite for achieving national sovereignty and sustainable regional stability.
The values of heroism can also be actualized through cross-sectoral collaboration. The government, security forces, academics, and civil society must work hand in hand to tackle modern challenges—from energy crises and climate change to food security. The spirit of gotong royong (mutual cooperation) inherited from the heroes should become a new social energy to address collective problems inclusively.
Preserving unity does not always require grand gestures. It can begin with small daily actions—respecting differing opinions, helping others regardless of background, and fostering a harmonious environment. In the workplace, especially within government and the civil service, the spirit of unity can be manifested through professionalism, integrity, and a service-oriented mindset. Civil servants who work sincerely and responsibly are, in essence, modern-day heroes—guardians of public trust and the nation’s integrity.
It is important to remember that unity does not mean uniformity. On the contrary, Indonesia’s rich diversity of ethnicities, religions, cultures, and languages is a source of strength for national identity. True unity is one that respects diversity, opens space for dialogue, and upholds universal human values.
As the Ministry of Youth and Sports has emphasized, Heroes Day should remind all citizens to remain united and continue helping one another without barriers. From Sabang to Merauke, from Miangas to Rote, Indonesians are part of one great body called Indonesia—whose strength lies in its togetherness.
As we commemorate Heroes Day this year, let us reaffirm our commitment to continue the heroes’ struggle in our own ways—not with bamboo spears, but with real work, dedication, and cross-generational collaboration. The spirit of true heroism never fades; it lives on in every step of those who love their homeland sincerely.
Heroes Day is not only a time to remember, but also a time to act. Let this moment be a collective movement to uphold unity, strengthen social justice, and realize the vision of a sovereign, fair, and prosperous Indonesia.
*) Public Policy Analyst
