Fadli said 24 of the 49 names were placed on a priority list.
“The nomination process starts from the grassroots - from citizens and local governments - and is reviewed by researchers, academics, and community leaders at district, provincial, and national levels,” he said after meeting Prabowo at the Presidential Palace on Wednesday.
The final list was submitted by the National Research and Review Team for Titles (TP2GP) to the GTK Council for further evaluation.
Fadli, who also serves as Culture Minister, said nine of the nominees had been proposed in previous years, while 40 were new submissions this year.
“All nominees meet the requirements. Their contributions, background, and life stories have been studied thoroughly and verified through multiple academic and scientific assessments,” he said.
Fadli added that the council would continue reviewing the list, taking into account regional representation, gender balance, and other considerations.
Regarding Soeharto’s inclusion, Fadli said the nomination came from public submissions. When asked about public protests against Soeharto’s candidacy, he described the criticism as part of the democratic process.
“We see those as input. But all 49 names were proposed because of their significant contributions to the nation. If they didn’t meet the criteria, they wouldn’t be nominated,” he said.
Fadli cited Soeharto’s leadership in the March 1, 1949 General Offensive during the Dutch aggression and the West Irian liberation campaign as examples of his service to Indonesia.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives' Commission VIII Ansory Siregar urged all parties to remain objective regarding the Ministry of Social Affairs’ nomination of national heroes, including former President Soeharto.
Ansory said every nominee has a proven record of struggle and tangible contributions to the nation.
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Translator: Genta TM, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Primayanti
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