Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Every year on November 10, Indonesia observes National Heroes Day to honor the sacrifices of those who fought to achieve and defend the nation’s independence. This date was chosen to commemorate one of the most significant and tragic events in Indonesia’s history during its struggle for freedom.
The Historical Significance Behind November 10
Following the declaration of independence on August 17, 1945, Indonesia faced ongoing instability. Armed clashes between Indonesian forces and British troops erupted in Surabaya, escalating into a full-scale confrontation. The turning point came on October 30, 1945, when Brigadier General A.W.S. Mallaby, the British commander for East Java, was killed. His death outraged the British forces.
In response, Major General Eric Carden Robert Mansergh, who succeeded Mallaby, issued an ultimatum on November 10, 1945. The ultimatum demanded that Indonesian fighters surrender their weapons and cease resistance against Allied Forces Netherlands East Indies (AFNEI) troops and the Dutch administration (NICA). The British also threatened to launch an all-out assault on Surabaya by land, sea, and air if the demands were not met. They gave Indonesian leaders and youth until 6:00 AM on November 10 to comply.
However, the Indonesians refused to back down, sparking what became known as the Battle of Surabaya. The battle raged for three weeks, starting on November 10, 1945, and resulted in significant casualties. Around 20,000 Indonesians lost their lives, 150,000 residents were forced to flee the city, and British forces suffered over 1,600 casualties, including those killed, wounded, or missing. The fierce resistance earned Surabaya the nickname “Hell on Earth” due to the scale of destruction and loss.
Surabaya: The City of Heroes
The Battle of Surabaya is now etched into Indonesia’s collective memory as a symbol of courage and resistance. To honor the fallen heroes, November 10 was officially designated as National Heroes Day, a day of remembrance celebrated annually in Indonesia.
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Indonesia National Heroes Day 2024 Theme
The theme for Indonesia National Heroes Day in 2024 is “Emulate Your Heroes, Love Your Country,” as outlined by the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos). This theme reflects a call to embody the spirit of the nation’s heroes by embracing their values of bravery, sacrifice, and relentless fighting spirit. It also serves as a reminder to carry forward the aspirations of the nation’s founders and to deepen love for the country.
Here’s a breakdown of the 2024 Heroes Day theme:
- Honoring the Heroes
This phrase urges everyone to honor and remember the sacrifices of those who fought for Indonesia’s independence. These heroes serve as true exemplars of courage, sacrifice, and patriotism. - Character Building
The theme encourages younger generations to learn from the moral values of Indonesia’s heroes, such as integrity, bravery, and selflessness. These values are essential in shaping a strong and positive character. - National Unity
“Emulate Your Heroes, Love Your Country” emphasizes the spirit of nationalism, a call to unite, preserve national identity, and strengthen a love for the homeland. - Inspiring Action
The phrase encourages individuals to become everyday heroes in their communities by contributing positively and actively to society.
National Heroes Day serves as a powerful reminder of Indonesia resilience and the enduring legacy of those who fought for the country’s freedom. Through celebrations, reflections, and the promotion of national values, the day continues to inspire current and future generations to protect and cherish their hard-won independence.
(Raidi/Agung)
