Indonesia has conferred its highest civilian honour, the National Hero title, on 19 figures in a ceremony at the State Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, as the country marked Heroes’ Day.
President Prabowo Subianto presented the titles at the ceremony, which was held under Presidential Decree number 93/TK of 2026. The decree was read out after a moment of silence, according to reports of the ceremony.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi announced the awards earlier on Tuesday at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta. He said the 19 recipients had been chosen through a lengthy, multi-stage process.
“After a lengthy, multi-stage process, beginning with nominations at regional level and culminating in the finalisation by the Council for Titles, Decorations and Honours, it was decided that 19 people would receive National Hero titles this year,” Prasetyo said.
Who was honoured
Among those named were the late retired police general Hoegeng Imam Santoso, the late former prime minister Ali Sastroamidjojo and the late retired general Muhammad Jusuf, Prasetyo said.
Hoegeng, a former national police chief, remains a role model for the Indonesian National Police, Prasetyo said. Ali Sastroamidjojo served several times as prime minister in the early years of the Republic of Indonesia’s independence, while Muhammad Jusuf was honoured for his service and achievements in the military.
The list of 19 also includes R. M. Margono Djojohadikusumo, the grandfather of President Prabowo Subianto. Prasetyo said the recipients came from various regions and professional backgrounds.
A day of remembrance
Heroes’ Day, known in Indonesia as Hari Pahlawan, falls on 10 November each year. It recalls the Battle of Surabaya on 10 November 1945, a defining fight in Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
This year’s theme was “My Hero, My Inspiration: Moving Forward Together, Continuing the Struggle,” recalling that history while pointing to the challenges facing the country today.
Prasetyo used the announcement to urge Indonesians, particularly the younger generation, to continue the heroes’ struggle by making the most of independence and contributing to the nation.
“On behalf of the government and the President, we would first like to wish everyone a happy Heroes’ Day. Let us pay the highest tribute to all heroes, both those known to the public and those who fought but whose names are not widely known,” he said.
The National Hero title is the highest title awarded in Indonesia. Recipients are selected by the president on the recommendation of the Council for Titles, Decorations and Honours, after nominations and assessment at regional level.
