News

Bung Tomo to be given National Hero title

NU Online  ·  Senin, 3 November 2008 | 03:42 WIB

Jakarta, NU Online
An independence war veteran Sutomo, better known as Bung (elder brother) Tomo, will receive the title of National Hero from the government Heroes' Day on Nov. 10, a minister said Sunday.

"It is good news for the people of Surabaya and East Java, especially in commemoration of Heroes' Day," said Information and Communications Minister Mohammad Nuh, as quoted by Antara.<>

The announcement ends years of questions over why the government had yet to honor Bung Tomo despite his important role in the fight for independence, although his family never considered it as an issue.

"There are procedures and mechanisms for granting the title, but it is always the prerogative of the President to decide," he said.

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is scheduled to bestow the title on Bung Tomo and several other independence war figures in the Heroes' Day ceremony.

Bung Tomo played an important role in a battle in Surabaya in November 1945, when Indonesian soldiers and militia fought against British and Dutch troops as part of the National Revolution.

The battle helped stimulate Indonesian and international support for the country's independence. The battle peaked on Nov. 10, the date later chosen as Heroes' Day. (jp/dar)