The Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, with the Central Research and Review Team for Titles (TP2GP), experts, and cultural figures, has proposed ten individuals to be named National Heroes. Among the names is the second President of the Republic of Indonesia, General (Ret.) H.M. Soeharto.
The proposal has sparked controversy due to several dark episodes from his time in power.
UGM historian Dr. Agus Suwignyo stated that Soeharto technically meets the criteria and requirements for being named a national hero. However, the historical facts and controversies surrounding his role in 1965 cannot be ignored.
“If we look at the criteria for becoming a national hero, Soeharto meets those requirements. But we also can’t disregard the historical facts and controversies from 1965,” said Dr. Suwignyo on Thursday, Apr. 17, 2025.
According to the Minister of Social Affairs Regulation No. 15 of 2012 concerning the Nomination of National Heroes, individuals nominated for the title must meet various general and specific requirements.
These include making significant contributions as a leader or freedom fighter and never betraying the nation.
Dr. Suwignyo acknowledged Soeharto’s major role in Indonesia’s independence struggle.
During his military career, Soeharto took part in the Mar. 1, 1949, General Offensive, which succeeded in reclaiming Yogyakarta from colonial control.
In 1962, he was appointed Commander of the Mandala Command during the campaign to liberate West Papua.
Soeharto’s involvement in key military movements demonstrates his significant influence in Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
“Historical perspectives on Soeharto cannot be black and white. When it comes to the title of national hero, we cannot ignore historical facts, but we also cannot dismiss his contributions to independence,” he explained.
In terms of his contribution to independence, he admitted there is little issue.
Granting Soeharto the national hero title is likely to provoke critical discourse on how someone associated with human rights violations and press repression could be officially honored.
For this reason, Dr. Suwignyo suggested that if Soeharto is to be awarded the title, there must be specific categorization or contextual framing.
“Historical writing should always consider context. For instance, a category for national heroes in specific fields could allow the title to be granted, but within a defined context and with clarifying notes,” he said.
It is not uncommon for prominent figures in Indonesia’s history to have controversial or dark aspects to their legacy.
The nation can recognize contributions without dismissing other historical truths by contextualizing a national hero title to specific areas or periods.
For him, historical writing and recognition must consider perspective and context, elements that shape how future generations perceive national history.
Dr. Suwignyo also pointed out that Soeharto is the only figure facing such dilemmas.
He cited Syafruddin Prawiranegara as an example, a figure once labeled extreme for opposing power centralization in early post-independence Indonesia.
His involvement with the Revolutionary Government of the Republic of Indonesia (PRRI) in 1958 led to him being branded a traitor despite his vital role in establishing the emergency government.
“We still haven’t recognized many significant figures from the arts, technology, and science fields. I believe we need to expand our studies of national heroes beyond those with military backgrounds,” he concluded.
Author: Tasya
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photograph: Tempo.co