GIC: Honouring National Figures an Integral Part of a True Leader's Character

Jakarta - Gerakan Indonesia Cerah (GIC) has stated that honouring history and national figures must be an integral part of a true leader’s character, not merely a formality or image-building exercise. GIC Coordinator Febri Wahyuni Sabran assessed that such gestures are important for strengthening the emotional and moral connection between today’s leaders and the values championed by their predecessors. “Learning from history is not just about knowing the historical narrative, but about how to honour and emulate the virtues they bequeathed,” Febri said in a statement in Jakarta on Monday. According to her, one recent example of this was demonstrated by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. On Saturday (20/6), the Police Chief made a pilgrimage to the graves of several important Indonesian national figures, including the fourth President Abdurrahman Wahid (Gus Dur), first President Soekarno, second President Soeharto, and the Heroes’ Cemetery. The activity drew public attention and praise from various circles as a sincere form of respect for the nation’s founders and leaders. Febri opined that the Police Chief’s actions serve as a positive example for leaders across Indonesia. She explained that from Gus Dur, leaders can learn about pluralism, tolerance, and a populist leadership style, as he is remembered as a leader who upheld human rights and Indonesia’s diversity. From Soekarno, she continued, leaders can draw on the spirit of nationalism, unity, and a grand vision of a sovereign and dignified Indonesia. She added that from Soeharto, a leader can learn about stability and Indonesia’s economic growth. “From the heroes who fell defending the nation, the visit reflects respect for all freedom fighters without exception,” she said. Previously, the Police Chief stated that the pilgrimage was not merely an ordinary ceremonial visit. He emphasised that the activity was part of a profound inner journey to explore and absorb the leadership examples of predecessors who contributed to building the nation and state of Indonesia. He said that each grave visited represents a legacy of noble values that every leader in this country should uphold.