State Recognizes Soeharto’s Major Contributions as a National Hero from the Development Era
By: Ayu Safira Lestari
The government has officially designated Indonesia’s 2nd President, H. M. Soeharto, as a National Hero. This decision marks an important chapter in Indonesia’s history and underscores the state’s recognition of a leader who laid the foundation for national development and maintained political stability for more than three decades.
The conferment of the National Hero title to Soeharto is widely seen as a form of appreciation for his dedication and contributions in building Indonesia from the post-independence period into the modern development era. Soeharto is recognized not only as a figure who restructured the national economy but also as a leader who successfully created political stability and strengthened the unity of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
The title also reaffirms the recognition previously granted by the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) through TAP MPR No. V/MPR/1983, which declared Soeharto the “Father of Indonesia’s Development.” The MPR noted that Soeharto had successfully laid a strong foundation for sustainable national development through the Five-Year Development Programs (Repelita), covering sectors such as economy, education, health, and infrastructure.
For many, awarding Soeharto the National Hero title acknowledges the enduring impact of his policies. He is regarded as a leader capable of balancing economic and social development while ensuring that the nation’s growth remained aligned with the welfare of the common people.
Support for this recognition comes from various sectors of society, including farmers, who were among those most directly affected by economic and agricultural policies during the New Order era. Irfan Ahmad Fauzi, Chairman of the Indonesian Rubber Farmers Association (Apkarindo), stated that Soeharto’s policies brought significant improvements for farmers, particularly through programs aimed at increasing productivity and equitable prosperity.
Irfan explained that initiatives implemented during Soeharto’s leadership, such as the People’s Plantation Rejuvenation Program (PRPTE) and Core Estate Community Plantation Program (PIR), opened opportunities for millions of farmers to improve their livelihoods. These programs not only focused on increasing production but also created a more inclusive rural economy.
He noted that Soeharto had a forward-looking vision, emphasizing the importance of agricultural and rural infrastructure. Roads, irrigation systems, and distribution networks built during the New Order era had long-term effects on regional economic equity. Many previously isolated areas have since developed rapidly due to these directed development policies.
Farmers view this state recognition as a rightful acknowledgment of Soeharto’s lifetime dedication to advancing a sector that forms the backbone of Indonesia’s economy. The National Hero title is seen as a symbol of appreciation for a leader who brought tangible prosperity to the grassroots level.
Religious leaders have expressed similar support. Muslim Mufti, Head of Political and Public Policy Affairs at the Central Leadership of Persatuan Islam (PP Persis), highlighted that Soeharto was not only instrumental in economic development but also a freedom fighter who defended national sovereignty. He pointed out that Soeharto’s involvement in the March 1, 1949 General Offensive demonstrates his dedication to the country long before his presidency.
According to Muslim, Soeharto offers a valuable lesson in leadership grounded in public interest and a spirit of service. He is seen as a figure capable of carrying forward the national struggle from the revolutionary era into the development era. Persis views the conferment of the National Hero title as recognition of the continuity of the nation’s struggle—showing that development and independence are two sides of the same commitment to uphold Indonesia’s sovereignty.
Muslim also argued that designating Soeharto as a National Hero should serve as a moment for the nation to assess history more maturely and fairly. While no leader is without flaws, Soeharto’s major contributions to building modern Indonesia deserve a respected place in the nation’s historical record.
From the government’s perspective, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka emphasized that the decision followed a long and careful consideration process. He stated that Soeharto made major contributions to establishing the national economic foundation and achieving food self-sufficiency. The success in food security, poverty reduction, and expanded access to education provides strong justification for the award.
Gibran also said that the recognition reflects Indonesia’s maturity in honoring past leaders. He stressed the importance of evaluating each era of leadership objectively, understanding the unique context and challenges faced at the time. In his view, a great nation is one that appreciates its history and learns from its leaders’ experiences without being trapped in black-and-white judgments.
He added that the title also serves as a symbol of historical reconciliation—a moral step toward viewing the past in its entirety and placing each national figure in proper proportion. Honoring Soeharto as a National Hero is a demonstration of the nation’s gratitude for a leader who brought real change to the people.
The designation of Soeharto as a National Hero is seen by many as a reflection of Indonesia’s long journey in affirming national identity and the spirit of development. This year’s Heroes’ Day commemorations serve not only to remember independence fighters but also to highlight visionary leadership that impacts people’s welfare.
Soeharto’s policy legacy continues to influence many aspects of Indonesian society. Rural infrastructure developed during his tenure remains a backbone for economic connectivity, while basic education and health initiatives laid the groundwork for a more advanced generation of citizens.
More than mere remembrance, the conferment of the National Hero title to Soeharto is a tangible expression of Indonesia’s appreciation for the vision, steadfastness, and dedication of a national development leader. Even amid changing times, Soeharto’s influence remains evident in the social and economic structures of the nation, proving that the development he initiated has left a significant mark on Indonesia’s journey toward progress.
With the official National Hero title now bestowed, Indonesia not only honors a past leader but also affirms its commitment to continue development efforts that prioritize the welfare of the people, as envisioned by Soeharto.
National Political Observer – Mandala Raya Political Forum
