Public Figures Appreciate the National Hero Title for Soeharto: Acknowledging His Legacy of Development
Jakarta – Coinciding with Heroes Day, the government has officially conferred the title of National Hero upon Indonesia’s second president, H. M. Soeharto. The decision has been widely welcomed by various elements of society as a form of recognition for Soeharto’s significant contributions in building the nation’s economic, agricultural, and national stability foundations—legacies that continue to benefit Indonesia today.
Chairman of the Eastern Indonesia Alliance, Emanuel Mikael Kota, expressed his appreciation for the government’s decision. He stated that naming Soeharto a National Hero represents the state’s acknowledgment of the great services of a leader who laid a strong foundation for Indonesia’s modern progress.
“Soeharto was not without flaws, but he was also not without merit. He was a leader who continued the historical relay from Soekarno, not one who broke it,” he said.
Emanuel emphasized that a great nation is one capable of viewing its history with a cool head and a mature heart. He reminded the public not to be trapped in political resentment that could undermine national unity.
“If we keep holding on to resentment, our children and grandchildren will learn bitterness instead of learning to respect history. A great nation is not one without scars, but one that can forgive and keep moving forward,” he asserted.
A similar sentiment was expressed by Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Eddy Soeparno, who viewed the conferment as a timely moment to reaffirm the nation’s respect for leaders who contributed to the republic.
“Every head of state has contributed to the republic. President Soeharto took over leadership during an economic downturn and succeeded in stabilizing the situation. That’s a historical fact that cannot be erased,” Eddy stated.
He added that the National Hero title for Soeharto serves as a symbol of appreciation for his dedication in building a resilient national economy, which later became a foundation for long-term growth.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Intelligence and National Security Studies (INSS), Yusup Rahman Hakim, noted that the strategic policies implemented during Soeharto’s administration had a profound impact on national character development and economic resilience.
“The construction of elementary schools, administrative reforms, and agricultural modernization are legacies we still experience today. These are parts of a sustainable development legacy,” he said.
According to Yusup, granting Soeharto the title of National Hero is not merely a symbolic gesture but a reflection of the nation’s collective awareness to view history comprehensively.
“This nation is learning to make peace with its past. Honoring national figures like Soeharto doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to criticism—it means recognizing the major contributions that have shaped Indonesia as it is today,” he added.
The government’s decision to award the National Hero title to Soeharto is seen as both a moral act and a unifying moment. Recognition of Soeharto’s developmental legacy serves as a reminder that the nation’s progress cannot be separated from the hard work of its leaders—and that honoring their contributions is an essential part of preserving Indonesia’s unity.
