Culture Minister Remembers the Contributions of National Movement Figure K.H. Samanhudi

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Culture Minister Fadli Zon remembered the contributions of national movement figure K.H. Samanhudi, known as the founder of Sarekat Dagang Islam (SDI) and who played a role in building collective awareness among the people regarding the importance of unity and economic independence during the colonial era.

According to Fadli, K.H. Samanhudi was a pioneering figure who successfully organised society through an economic approach based on trade, particularly among batik traders in Laweyan. This step is considered an important foundation for the birth of broader movements in social and political fields.

“He organised the people’s strength through an economic vehicle, namely Sarekat Dagang Islam, as an initial step in facing colonial dominance,” said Fadli in his statement in Jakarta on Friday.

He conveyed this during a pilgrimage to the grave of K.H. Samanhudi in the Laweyan area, Surakarta, as part of a working visit to Surakarta City, Central Java.

Furthermore, Fadli added that the transformation of Sarekat Dagang Islam into Sarekat Islam in 1912, under the leadership of H.O.S. Tjokroaminoto, marked an important development in the direction of the nation’s struggle.

The organisation not only focused on economic interests but also began to extend into the political realm as a form of resistance against colonialism.

“This change shows that the struggle was not only focused on the economy but also developed into a movement that fought for justice and independence,” he added.

K.H. Samanhudi was born in 1868 in Surakarta and was a successful batik merchant. He founded Sarekat Dagang Islam in 1905 as a vehicle to protect the interests of native traders from the dominance of foreign traders.

This organisation later developed into Sarekat Islam, which became one of the largest mass organisations during the national movement era.

For his services, K.H. Samanhudi was awarded the title of National Hero by the Government of the Republic of Indonesia in 1961. He passed away in 1956 and is remembered as one of the important figures in the history of Indonesia’s independence struggle.

Fadli stated that this pilgrimage activity is hoped to become a momentum to strengthen historical awareness and foster appreciation for the struggles of the nation’s predecessors.

He emphasised his commitment to continue promoting historical values as part of national character and cultural development.