Heroes’ Day: Voices of Religious Leaders and Academics Grow Stronger—Soeharto Deemed Worthy of National Hero Title
Jakarta — In conjunction with the commemoration of Heroes’ Day, a number of religious leaders, academics, and politicians have expressed open support, stating that the services and record of dedication of Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, deserve to be formally recognized by the state with the title of National Hero.
Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) for Fatwas, Asrorun Niam Sholeh, emphasized the importance of maturity in interpreting the history of national leadership.
“Every late former president deserves to be recognized as a national hero because they all fought and sacrificed in leading the nation,” he said.
He reminded the public not to be trapped in the resentment of the past.
“People must not hold grudges or dwell on the mistakes of past leaders—no one is perfect,” he added.
A similar sentiment was voiced by Muhammadiyah Central Board Chairman, Dadang Kahmad, who regarded Soeharto’s contributions as both historical and strategic.
“Soeharto was a key figure in Indonesia’s history who deserves recognition for his dedication and contributions during the struggle for independence as well as during his national leadership,” said Dadang.
He also highlighted Soeharto’s crucial role during the revolution.
“Soeharto took part in guerrilla warfare and played a key role in the 1 March 1949 General Offensive, which became a strategic turning point in gaining international recognition for Indonesia’s sovereignty,” he concluded.
From the government’s side, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon underscored the importance of historical evidence in addressing the issue of the 1965–1966 human rights violations.
“There is no evidence showing that Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, was involved in the 1965–1966 genocide. The allegations against him have never been proven legally or supported by valid historical facts,” Fadli asserted.
Political support also came from NasDem Party Executive Board Chairwoman, Irma Suryani Chaniago, who cited the stability of the New Order era as an important consideration.
“During his leadership—despite its strengths and weaknesses—Indonesia remained safe, and the political situation was relatively stable. The country even achieved food self-sufficiency under his administration,” Irma said.
From the perspective of young academics, Ni Made Adi Novayanti, a lecturer at the Faculty of Communication and Business, Dwijendra University, encouraged the public to take an objective view.
“Regardless of the pros and cons surrounding the title, Soeharto achieved many tangible results during his 32 years of leadership,” she emphasized.
Similarly, I Gede Nandya Oktora, a lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Udayana University, highlighted the importance of preserving the nation’s collective memory.
“A great nation must never forget the contributions of its past leaders, including Soeharto, who is known as the father of national development,” he said.
On this Heroes’ Day, the growing chorus of support reflects a strengthened call for the state to consider awarding Soeharto the title of National Hero—while maintaining a healthy and balanced space for intergenerational dialogue.
