A great nation never forgets the services of its heroes. As a great nation, Indonesia honors its leaders who have fought for and contributed to the progress of the country. Throughout its history, Indonesia has faced difficult times after independence. In those critical moments, General Soeharto emerged as a decisive leader who played a pivotal role — from the 1 March 1949 General Offensive, the suppression of the G30S/PKI rebellion, to his efforts in stabilizing national politics and directing Indonesia toward planned economic development.
For more than three decades in leadership, Soeharto led Indonesia to achieve self-sufficiency in food, launch massive infrastructure development, and strengthen national resilience. Although his era was not without criticism, his achievements remain undeniable. Due to these accomplishments, he was bestowed the title “Father of Development.” Through the Five-Year Development Plan (Repelita), Soeharto implemented a systematic and long-term economic development strategy focused on meeting basic needs and promoting equitable infrastructure growth.
In agriculture, his policies led to food self-sufficiency through fertilizer support, improved seeds, and modern farming technologies. In education and infrastructure, the Inpres School and Inpres Road programs expanded access to development even in remote areas. Indonesia’s economy grew rapidly during this period, with an average GDP growth rate of 7.6% per year, according to the World Bank. Under Soeharto’s leadership, Indonesia transformed from a poor country into one of Asia’s emerging “economic tigers.”
Today, support continues to grow for granting Soeharto the National Hero title. Muhammadiyah Central Board Chairman Dadang Kahmad stated that Soeharto deserves this recognition for his service and dedication—both during Indonesia’s struggle for independence and throughout his national leadership. Similarly, Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board Chairman Ahmad Fahrur Rozi (Gus Fahrur) noted that Soeharto played a crucial role in two defining phases of Indonesia’s history: national stabilization and economic development. Minister of Social Affairs Syaifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) also affirmed that Soeharto meets the criteria for a National Hero based on comprehensive studies and recommendations from regional governments.
As the saying goes, “No ivory is without a crack.” The move to bestow the title of National Hero upon Soeharto symbolizes Indonesia’s democratic maturity—a recognition of the enduring contributions of a leader who helped shape and define the journey of a great nation.
