Fadli Zon Supports Proposal for Achmad Mochtar as National Hero

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has expressed his support for the proposal to name scientist Prof. Dr. Achmad Mochtar a national hero, in recognition of his service and dedication to the Indonesian nation.

“I declare that I strongly support the proposal for Achmad Mochtar to become a national hero, because his services and dedication are extraordinary. In a critical time, he dared to maintain his stance and his conviction did not waver, even at the cost of his life. His name is special not only as a scientist, but also for his moral choice to perish in order to protect his colleagues,” the Culture Minister said in Jakarta on Wednesday.

According to Fadli Zon, the nation’s history does not only record struggles in the fields of politics, diplomacy, or physical combat, but also in science, including medical science. Achmad Mochtar is one of the important figures in medical science who made an extraordinary sacrifice, according to the minister.

“He was a doctor and the Head of the Eijkman Institute during the Japanese occupation and sacrificed himself to protect his colleagues. In my view, this is a heroic act,” Fadli Zon said.

He also expressed appreciation to the academics, historians, and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Indonesia who initiated the proposal for Prof. Dr. Achmad Mochtar as a national hero.

Fadli Zon believes that the proposal for National Hero status aligns with the spirit championed by President Prabowo Subianto to present more national figures from various fields as inspiration for the younger generation.

Achmad Mochtar has received the Bintang Jasa Nararya and his name has been immortalised as a hospital in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra. The minister views his struggle and sacrifice, particularly for science, as deserving of a higher award as a form of state honour.

The exemplary conduct of national figures in the field of medicine is expected to encourage future generations to contribute to advancing science, culture, and prioritising national interests.