Lessons from Minahasa’s Heroes

Jakarta (ANTARA) - There is always something to learn from great figures, including those from Minahasa. In Indonesia’s historical writing, Minahasa has a distinctive place, having at times been perceived as a community favoured by the Dutch colonial government.

A similar image has applied to people from the Banyumasan cultural region, including Purworejo, which holds a particular position in discussions of military affairs.

During the colonial era, many people from Banyumas and Minahasa enlisted in the Royal Netherlands East Indies Army (KNIL).

Banyumas and Purworejo, as well as Minahasa and Maluku, have long been known as recruitment grounds for prospective KNIL members.

This is where the tradition of officers from Banyumas began. At one point, they greatly shaped the country’s military history, producing renowned figures such as Generals Soedirman, Oerip Soemohardjo and Gatot Soebroto.

One military figure from Minahasa worth mentioning is Colonel Alex Evert Kawilarang (1920–2000). Although he died many years ago, a number of prominent figures from Minahasa remain relevant subjects of discussion, particularly for the example they set.

It must be said that the ideal way to provide political education to the public is through the example set by leaders in the bureaucracy, or, more narrowly, within political parties.

A lack of exemplary conduct among some—or many—leaders and party figures could become a source of the multidimensional crisis the country may face.

When role models are hard to find, younger generations will seek examples in their own way. That is why the older generation now understands why figures such as Sutan Sjahrir will never lack support among young people.