Suharto’s National Hero Title Sparks Controversy, Human Rights Minister Refuses Comment
President Prabowo Subianto’s decision to bestow the title of National Hero on Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, on Monday (November 10, 2025), sparked both controversy and controversy among the public. Several human rights activists considered the decision to be fraught with controversy, given that Soeharto’s reign was marked by numerous alleged human rights violations.
When asked for his response, Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai chose not to comment.
After attending an event at the Ministry of Human Rights Building in Jakarta on Tuesday (November 11, 2025), Pigai was stopped by several journalists seeking his views on the government’s decision.
However, Pigai gave a short and firm response.
“Look, regarding the awarding of the hero award to Pak Harto, I am the Minister of Human Rights, I have no comment, period. No comment on that,” he said firmly.
Pigai’s silence drew public attention, given his reputation as a vocal advocate for humanitarian issues and the enforcement of human rights in Indonesia.
Interestingly, on the same day, Pigai inaugurated the new naming of the Ministry of Human Rights Building, the “K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid Building,” and the “Marsinah Room” for the main public service area. Both are named after figures who were also recently awarded the title of National Hero in 2025.
This move is seen as a form of respect for the humanitarian values ​​and struggle for people’s rights championed by both figures.
Meanwhile, the government has not provided further information regarding the reasons for designating Soeharto as a National Hero. This issue remains a hot topic of public discussion in various circles, particularly among human rights activists and academics.
