The public must maintain a conducive situation. The title determination procedure is transparent and in accordance with regulations
JAKARTA — The government reaffirmed its strong commitment to maintaining national security stability after the designation of Indonesia’s second president, Suharto, as a National Hero in 2025, sparked public outcry. Amid calls for demonstrations from several groups, the government expressed its appreciation for the majority of the public who continued to choose an orderly path of expression and refused to be provoked into taking to the streets without clear justification.
The government believes this public stance reflects growing democratic maturity. The public is believed to understand that sensitive issues like heroism require formal dialogue, not mass mobilization that could potentially trigger disinformation, horizontal friction, and even disrupt public order.
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Djamari Chaniago, emphasized that the government has prepared comprehensive security measures to ensure the national situation remains conducive. He stated that cross-sector coordination is continuously being strengthened, including monitoring potential mass mobilizations, whether spontaneous or organized.
“The government respects everyone’s opinion, but calls for demonstrations that have the potential to spark chaos must not be tolerated. The state is responsible for ensuring that democratic space does not become a means of provocation,” he said.
In line with this, Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian emphasized that all regional heads have been instructed to increase vigilance and strengthen early detection of potential vulnerabilities in their respective areas. He considered the decision of the majority of the public to reject calls for demonstrations a positive indicator of growing public awareness of the importance of public order.
“We appreciate the people who chose to reject the call to demonstrate. This shows that citizens are increasingly aware of the importance of public order. Local governments are obligated to maintain a safe and provocative situation,” he said.
The government reiterated that the awarding of the title of National Hero to the second President of the Republic of Indonesia underwent a rigorous review process by the Council for Titles, Medals, and Honors. All decisions were made through objective procedures in accordance with state mechanisms. Therefore, differing opinions are expected to be conveyed through official channels to avoid distorting information or triggering conflict within the community.
Amidst the evolving political dynamics, the government calls on all elements of the nation to continue maintaining national stability and rejecting all forms of baseless provocation. National stability is the primary foundation of development, and it is hoped that all public aspirations can be channeled politely, orderly, and in accordance with the law, ensuring a healthy and productive democratic space.
