Jakarta — The discourse surrounding the proposal to grant Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, the title of National Hero has drawn widespread support. A number of religious figures and academics believe that Soeharto made major contributions in building Indonesia’s economic foundations, maintaining national stability, and elevating the nation’s standing in the eyes of the world. They agree that assessments of Soeharto’s legacy should be viewed objectively as part of Indonesia’s historical journey.
Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) for Fatwas, Asrorun Niam Sholeh, stated that every late president deserves to be honored with the title of National Hero for their service and sacrifice to the nation.
“Every former president who has passed away deserves to be recognized as a National Hero, as they all fought and sacrificed in leading this country,” said Asrorun Niam.
Echoing this sentiment, Muhammadiyah Central Board (PP Muhammadiyah) Chairman Dadang Kahmad asserted that Soeharto is an important historical figure who merits recognition for his dedication and contributions.
“Soeharto is a key figure in Indonesia’s history who deserves recognition for his service and contributions—both during the independence struggle and his national leadership,” emphasized Dadang Kahmad.
He explained that Soeharto’s role was not limited to his presidency, but began during the revolutionary struggle for independence.
“Soeharto took part in guerrilla warfare and played a significant role in the 1 March 1949 General Offensive, which became a strategic moment for international recognition of Indonesia’s sovereignty,” Dadang added.
A similar perspective was expressed by academics. Professor Marsuki, a senior lecturer at Hasanuddin University, stated that Soeharto’s leadership over more than three decades left a lasting legacy of development that cannot be ignored.
“For more than 30 years of leadership, with the extensive development he achieved, he is highly deserving of the title of National Hero,” said Prof. Marsuki.
Meanwhile, I Gede Nandya Oktora, a lecturer at the Faculty of Economics and Business, Udayana University, emphasized the importance of honoring past leaders as part of a great nation’s identity.
“A great nation must never forget the contributions of its past leaders, including Soeharto, who is known as the father of national development,” Nandya concluded.
This renewed discussion is seen as an opportunity to reaffirm national spirit—by placing history and the contributions of former leaders in a fair and balanced perspective. The conferment of the National Hero title to Soeharto is viewed not merely as symbolic recognition, but as an expression of gratitude for the lifelong dedication of a leader who helped lay the firm foundations for Indonesia’s progress.
