Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.  Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf explained  on Sunday (20/4/3035) the procedure for nominating Indonesia’s second president, Soeharto, as a national hero, emphasizing that the process begins with public input such as seminars and discussions involving historians and local figures.

Once a proposal is approved by a mayor or regent, it is passed to the governor, followed by another round of seminars. 

The Ministry of Social Affairs then assembles a review team—including academics, historians, and religious/community leaders—under the Directorate General of Social Empowerment to assess all submissions from across Indonesia.

The final recommendation is signed by the minister and submitted to the Council of Titles.

Responding to public backlash, Minister Saifullah also assured that all voices, including criticism, will be acknowledged, according to antaranews.com.

“We listen to everything, this is part of the process,” he said, after attending a post-Eid gathering in Jakarta.

Soeharto is among 10 proposed names for 2025, alongside figures like Abdurrahman Wahid and Bisri Sansuri.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)