EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, YOGYAKARTA — Heroes Day, commemorated every November 10, should be more than a ceremonial occasion. It should serve as a reminder for all elements of society to carry forward the values of heroism, including dedication to public service and a spirit of Statesmanship.
Haedar Nashir, President of the Muhammadiyah Central Board, delivered the message during a press conference ahead of Muhammadiyah’s Tanwir and 114th Anniversary celebrations at the organization’s headquarters in Yogyakarta on Monday (9/11).
Marking Heroes Day, Haedar called on the public to revive the spirit of heroism. He said the occasion provides an opportunity to remember the struggles of the nation’s founders, both those who sacrificed their lives and those who survived and continued contributing to Indonesia.
The nation’s heroes sacrificed their wealth, thoughts, energy, and even their lives to secure Indonesia’s independence. Today’s generation, therefore, has a responsibility to continue their struggle by upholding the values of heroism in everyday life.
Haedar acknowledged that carrying forward this spirit is no easy task. Individuals, organizations, political parties, and various social groups naturally pursue their own interests. Without ethical principles and a sense of national responsibility, however, such pursuits can lead people to justify any means to achieve their goals.
“The principle may sound simple, but putting it into practice is not easy.”
According to Haedar, pursuing interests without ethics and national responsibility can undermine collective life. This not only threatens national unity but can also erode respect for the law and damage the social order.
Making Heroes Day a Moment of Reflection
Haedar stressed that Heroes Day should serve as an opportunity for collective reflection, particularly among public officials and stakeholders. They need to evaluate how much they have genuinely contributed to the nation rather than making personal or group interests their primary objectives.
“This should not be merely a ceremonial occasion. It needs to become a moment of reflection for all of us, especially our national leaders, to consider what we have contributed to the country,” he said.
Haedar also warned that ceremonies, such as flag-raising events and annual commemorations, would have little meaning without a genuine commitment to practicing the values of heroism. Without changes in attitudes and behavior, people could instead develop a sense of having served the nation simply by participating in commemorative events.
“If ceremonies continue to be held without genuine awareness, people may end up feeling that they have already become heroes,” he emphasized.
Through Heroes Day, Haedar encouraged the public not only to honor history but also to reflect on their own contributions to the nation.
He said continuing the struggle of the nation’s heroes must be demonstrated through meaningful service, preserving unity, respecting the law, and consistently placing the interests of the nation and state above personal or group interests. (Andiva)
