Heroes are pioneers of national life, possessing a forward-thinking vision for a better future.
Heroes laid the foundation for the birth of a nation and contributed to prophetic and forward-thinking ideas.
Therefore, National Heroes Day, observed every Nov. 10, honors and remembers the heroes’ services and struggles in defending independence and serves as a space for collective reflection on the meaning of heroism in today’s world.
“Today, we live in an era of independence and can fill it by maintaining unity, enhancing knowledge capacity, and producing impactful works and innovations for the nation. All of this is our collective struggle today to become a resilient and sovereign country,” said UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia while leading the ceremony at the Balairung courtyard on Sunday (Nov. 10).
Professor Emilia stated that Indonesia still faces many critical challenges and issues that must be addressed today and in the future.
These issues range from the threats of climate change, shifting global geopolitical dynamics, global warming, drought and famine disasters, and energy and clean water crises to future health challenges.
She explained that in this context, the energy of heroism is essential to ignite the spirit of involvement in solving many of these issues.
She noted that today’s heroes can be seen as those who dedicate themselves to the values of the nation’s struggle and carry them out rightly and justly.
“The term ‘Hero’ is no longer defined as someone who fights for Indonesia’s independence by taking up arms and standing on the front lines against colonialism. The meaning of ‘Hero’ now extends beyond fighting for physical independence to also fighting for social, intellectual, and economic independence in each of their respective fields of challenge,” she explained.
Regarding the theme “Emulate Your Heroes, Love Your Nation,” the rector reminded everyone to continually emulate the characteristics of heroes, such as resilience, determination, bravery in sacrifice, and struggle in facing crises to create the best contributions for the nation as an expression of love for the homeland.
Honoring the heroes also calls upon everyone to emulate, respect, and remember the services of those who fought for the nation’s independence and sovereignty.
In commemorating National Heroes Day, the rector urged all to strengthen character education by encouraging younger generations to understand heroes’ moral and ethical values, such as integrity, courage, and sacrifice, which shape a strong and positive character.
The theme’s spirit of nationalism also calls us all to unite, maintain our national identity, and strengthen our love for the homeland.
“Through this year’s theme, I invite every university community member to become a ‘hero’ in their respective fields of work and expertise by making positive contributions and playing an active role in building and enlightening the nation,” she concluded.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Post-editor: Afifudin Baliya
Photographer: Firsto