Soeharto Deserves to Be a National Hero, National Figures Unite in Support
Jakarta – Support for the designation of the second President of the Republic of Indonesia, Suharto, as a National Hero continues to flow. Religious figures and academics believe that Suharto’s significant services deserve state recognition.
The Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Central Executive Board, Dadang Kahmad, called Suharto an important figure worthy of being remembered for his dedication. “We support Mr. Suharto as a National Hero because he rendered significant services to the Republic of Indonesia, from the independence revolution to the development era,” said Dadang.
According to him, Suharto played a significant role in the struggle for independence, including the General Offensive of March 1, 1949, which marked a crucial moment for the recognition of Indonesian sovereignty in the eyes of the world. During his leadership, he continued, Suharto successfully implemented national development through the Five-Year Development Plan (Repelita), which promoted economic progress and national stability. “When we appreciate someone’s heroic services, we should not judge them based on political differences, but on their contributions to the nation,” he said.
The Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board (PBNU), Ahmad Fahrur Rozi (Gus Fahrur), also supports the Ministry of Social Affairs’ move to designate Soeharto as a national hero. “Pak Harto made significant contributions to national stabilization and economic development. During his time, Indonesia was known internationally as one of Asia’s new economic tigers,” he said.
According to Gus Fahrur, a great nation is one that respects its leaders. “Declaring him a hero does not mean eliminating criticism, but rather demonstrates the nation’s maturity in honoring the significant contributions he has made,” he said. He hopes the designation will serve as a momentum to strengthen the spirit of unity and appreciation for the services of national figures.
Similarly, Professor Marsuki of Hasanuddin University considered Soeharto to be the nation’s greatest son, who led Indonesia to an era of stability and economic growth. “During his more than 30 years of leadership, with various development initiatives, he truly deserves the title of National Hero,” he said. He added that the economic stability and security during that period made Indonesia known as a country with the best performance in the region.
“Indonesia’s economy was known as the Asian tiger economy at that time. His contributions cannot be denied,” Marsuki emphasized. She also viewed Suharto’s decision to publicly resign in 1998 as a testament to his statesmanship. “He demonstrated the spirit of a true leader who put the interests of the nation above personal gain,” she said.
This widespread support confirms that the Indonesian people are learning not only to remember the past but also to honor the dedication of leaders who have rendered significant service to the country.
