Indonesia Marks Heroes’ Day at Kalibata as 18 Nominated for National Hero Title

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesia marked Heroes’ Day on Tuesday with a solemn ceremony at the Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, led by Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, paying tribute to those who fought for the country’s independence.

Heroes’ Day Ceremony Recalls the Battle of Surabaya

The ceremony opened with a reading recounting the Battle of Surabaya of November 10, 1945, which Indonesia commemorates every year as Heroes’ Day. The reading was followed by a moment of silence, which Minister Yusuf dedicated to the nation’s heroes, martyrs and fighters who struggled for independence.

During the minute of silence, troops presented arms as sirens sounded for 60 seconds across the cemetery grounds.

Yusuf then led a tribute to the national heroes and formally closed the ceremony. He later visited the graves of the heroes and laid flowers alongside other participants and invited guests.

Theme of This Year’s Commemoration

This year’s Heroes’ Day ceremony was held under the theme “My Heroes, My Role Models: Moving Forward Together, Continuing the Struggle.” Indonesian Navy Colonel Febryanto A. of the First Fleet Air Unit served as ceremony commander.

The theme highlights the role of the nation’s heroes as examples for present and future generations, encouraging Indonesians to carry forward the spirit of struggle and unity in building the country.

18 Nominated for National Hero Status

After the ceremony, Minister Yusuf said President Prabowo Subianto was expected to announce the recipients of national hero titles later on Tuesday.

The Social Affairs Ministry has proposed 18 people for national hero status this year. Among the nominees are former national police chief Hoegeng Imam Santoso, widely remembered for his integrity, and Margono Djojohadikoesoemo, the founder of Bank Negara Indonesia and grandfather of President Prabowo.

The national hero title is Indonesia’s highest honour for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the nation’s independence and development, and its announcement each year forms a central part of Heroes’ Day commemorations.