Jakarta - The President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has named 10 national figures as National Heroes for 2025.
This was announced by the Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, at a press conference after the National Hero title award ceremony at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Monday (10/11/2025). "The President has named ten national heroes whom we all know, namely Abdurrahman Wahid, General H. M. Soeharto, Marsinah, Mochtar Kusumaatmadja, Syaikhona Kholil Bangkalan, the 16th Sultan of Dompu, the 37th Sultan of Tidore, Tuan Saragih, Rahmah El Yunusiyyah, and Sarwo Edhie Wibowo,” said Fadli Zon.
Fadli explained that the process of proposing heroes was carried out in stages, starting at the regency and city levels, then reviewed by a team of researchers and regional title assessors (TP2GD) consisting of academics, community leaders, religious leaders, and governors, before finally being submitted to a team of researchers and title assessors at the central level (TP2GP) under the coordination of the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs. ‘A total of 49 names were submitted, consisting of 40 new names and 9 names carried over from the previous year. The Title Council then selected 24 names that were considered a priority, and finally the President designated 10 names as National Heroes,’ he explained.
Furthermore, Fadli Zon emphasised that all the figures designated had met the requirements and criteria in accordance with the laws and regulations.
Each name was proposed through a lengthy process, including seminars, research, and academic documentation confirming the figures' contributions and services to the nation. ‘Their services are clear and concrete. The selection process was conducted in a rigorous, transparent, and scientific manner. Hopefully, their exemplary deeds will inspire future generations,’ said Fadli.
Regarding the designation of TNI General (Ret.) H. M. Soeharto as one of the recipients of the National Hero title, Fadli emphasised that the decision was made after an in-depth study of his historical role and real contributions to the nation's struggle. ‘Historical facts show Pak Harto's role in various battles, such as the General Offensive of 1 March, the Battle of Ambarawa, the five-day battle in Semarang, and his role as Commander of Operation Mandala in the conquest of West Irian. In addition, his role in national development is also recognised through his efforts to alleviate poverty and the five-year development plan,’ explained Fadli.
Minister of Culture Fadli Zon reminded Indonesians that they must view history holistically and objectively, without disregarding anyone's contributions.
This view is in line with the statement made by Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf, who emphasised that the awarding of the title of National Hero is a form of the state's respect for national figures who have made significant contributions to Indonesia. "We need to learn to view history wisely. Every era has its own figures and contributions. Let us learn to appreciate the services of our nation's predecessors,‘ said Saifullah Yusuf.
He added that although every figure has strengths and weaknesses, their fighting spirit, sincerity, and dedication to the nation should be emulated by all Indonesian people. ’Every generation has its time, and every era has its figures. Let us take the good from the struggles of our predecessors and continue their struggle for the progress of the nation," concluded Saifullah.
The 2025 National Hero title awarding ceremony is a moment of national reflection to foster a spirit of nationalism, unity, and appreciation for the struggles of heroes who have sacrificed everything for the glory of Indonesia. (BPMI Setpres)