Gov’t Designates 10 National Heroes Based on Historical Study and Exemplary Conduct

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon delivers a press statement after the National Hero title awarding ceremony at the State Palace, Monday (11/10). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon announced that President Prabowo Subianto has designated ten figures as National Heroes on the occasion of National Heroes’ Day 2025.

“The President has designated 10 national heroes: Mr. Abdurrahman Wahid, General H.M. Soeharto, Mrs. Marsinah, Mr. Mochtar Kusumaatmadja, Sayyiduna Kholil Bangkalan, the 16th Sultan of Dompu, the 37th Sultan of Tidore, Mr. Saragih, Rahmah El Yunusiyyah, and Mr. Sarwo Edhie,” said Fadli Zon after the National Hero title awarding ceremony at the State Palace on Monday (11/10).

Fadli explained that the nomination process was carried out in stages, starting from the community at district and city levels, then reviewed by regional teams consisting of academics, religious leaders, community figures, and governors, before finally being submitted to the central research and title review team coordinated by the Ministry of Social Affairs.

“In total, there were 49 names, 40 newcomers and 9 carryover names from previous nominations, and the Title Council has selected 24 priority names, then the President chose 10 of them,” explained Fadli.

He emphasized that all designated figures have met the requirements and criteria according to the applicable laws and regulations. He expressed hope that the exemplary characters of these heroes can inspire future generations.

“Their services are clear, concrete, and truly aspirations that have been selected through a thorough process, including seminars and documentation. Hopefully, their services and good deeds will become an inspiration for us,” he said.

Regarding the designation of General TNI H. M. Soeharto as one of the national heroes, Fadli explained that the decision was based on historical facts of his struggles across various fields. “Regarding Mr. Soeharto’s services, including his struggles at the General Attack on March 1, his participation in the Ambarawa battle, the five-day battle in Semarang, his role as the Operational Commander of Mandala in reclaiming West Irian, and his contributions in five-year development plans, which have helped the country reduce poverty,” explained Fadli.

Responding to questions regarding the dynamics of past history, Fadli asserted that the Indonesian people should view history holistically and objectively. In line with this, Minister of Social Affairs Syaifullah Yusuf stated that awarding the title of National Hero is a form of respect to national figures for their services and struggles.

“Today, as has been conveyed, we look at the services of these figures, especially our predecessors. Let us once again learn to see the good and their contributions,” said Syaifullah.

He called on the people to emulate the values of the heroes’ struggles and to view the nation’s history wisely. “Each has flaws for sure. But let us together look forward. Every era has people, achievements, strengths, and weaknesses. Let us learn to see the services of our predecessors,” Syaifullah said. (BPMI) (EST/LW)