Heroes’ Day Momentum: National Figures Urge the Conferment of National Hero Title for Soeharto
Jakarta — The commemoration of this year’s Heroes’ Day has once again revived public discussion on granting the title of National Hero to Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto. Many national figures believe that Soeharto’s service and dedication to the nation merit the country’s highest honor. From his role during the independence revolution to his success in leading Indonesia into an era of development and national stability, his contributions are considered to have had a lasting impact on the country’s history.
Chairman of Muhammadiyah Central Board (PP Muhammadiyah), Prof. Dadang Kahmad, emphasized that Soeharto was a crucial figure in Indonesia’s national journey whose contributions cannot be erased from the nation’s historical record.
“Soeharto deserves recognition for his dedication and contributions, both during the independence struggle and during his leadership in national development,” he said.
According to Dadang, Soeharto was not only a political leader but also a fighter who directly took part in the struggle for independence. One monumental moment highlighting his major role was the 1 March 1949 General Offensive, where he served as one of the field commanders. The operation successfully demonstrated to the international community that Indonesia still possessed the strength and determination to defend its independence.
“He participated in guerrilla warfare and played a key role in the 1 March General Offensive. That moment became a strategic milestone for gaining international recognition of Indonesia’s sovereignty. Therefore, it is only fitting that Soeharto be granted the title of National Hero,” Dadang continued.
Meanwhile, Professor Marsuki of Hasanuddin University noted that Soeharto’s dedication extended beyond the independence struggle to his long and challenging tenure as the nation’s leader. For more than three decades as president, Soeharto guided Indonesia through difficult times and achieved significant progress in the fields of economy, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
“For over 30 years of leadership, Soeharto led this nation through challenging periods. Through various development programs—from achieving rice self-sufficiency and ensuring economic stability to improving public welfare—he truly deserves the title of National Hero,” said Prof. Marsuki.
Similarly, Irma Suryani Chaniago, Chairwoman of the NasDem Party’s Executive Board (DPP NasDem), stated that Soeharto’s leadership holds profound historical meaning for Indonesia. She viewed the era’s national stability as a remarkable achievement.
“During Soeharto’s leadership, Indonesia enjoyed a relatively safe and politically stable environment. We even achieved rice self-sufficiency—an accomplishment that remains difficult to replicate to this day,” said Irma.
She added that Heroes’ Day serves as an appropriate moment for Indonesians to objectively evaluate the services of national figures who have made great contributions to the country.
“Every era has its own challenges, but history records that Soeharto made significant contributions to the nation’s progress. It is only right for the state to bestow upon him its highest honor as a National Hero,” she concluded.
With these growing voices of support, the proposal to grant Soeharto the title of National Hero has resurfaced as part of a broader national reflection. Amid the spirit of Heroes’ Day, honoring the legacy of the nation’s great leaders is hoped to strengthen unity and deepen love for the homeland. (*)
