Labor Activist Marsinah Officially Named National Hero

Jejak Potensi - President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has officially conferred the title of National Hero upon ten distinguished figures during a solemn ceremony held at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Monday, November 10, 2025, in commemoration of National Heroes Day.

Earlier, Minister of State Secretary (Mensesneg) Prasetyo Hadi explained that the conferment represents the nation’s highest tribute to those who made extraordinary contributions to Indonesia’s progress.

“This is part of how we honor the leaders and figures who have made great contributions to the country,” Prasetyo told reporters in Bogor on Sunday, November 9, 2025.

A Look Back at Marsinah’s Struggle

Marsinah was a factory worker at PT Catur Putra Surya in Porong, Sidoarjo, known for her courage and persistence in fighting for workers’ rights during the early 1990s. She was fearless in demanding justice for her fellow workers, particularly regarding fair wages and welfare.

In May 1993, after leading a workers’ strike calling for better conditions, Marsinah was reported missing. Three days later, her body was found lifeless. Her tragic death sparked national grief and turned her into a lasting symbol of the labor movement’s resilience and courage in the pursuit of justice across Indonesia.

Remembered as a National Hero

Governor of East Java, Khofifah Indar Parawansa, stated that the proposal to recognize Marsinah as a National Hero had been in progress for several years.

“In fact, Marsinah was first proposed in 2022, but at that time, the supporting documents were still incomplete,” Khofifah told reporters ahead of the conferment ceremony at the State Palace on Monday, November 10, 2025.

She explained that strong advocacy came from labor unions nationwide, especially during May Day commemorations.

“During May Day events, nearly all labor unions across Indonesia, including those in East Java, voiced their support for Marsinah to be declared a national hero,” she said.

“And when this proposal was submitted to President Prabowo, he responded very positively,” Khofifah added.

Khofifah further noted that the provincial government established a special task force to compile and verify historical data on Marsinah’s struggle.

“We visited her grave, her home, and collected primary sources to ensure the process was comprehensive and accurate. This was a collective effort by many parties,” she explained.

More than three decades after her courageous fight during the New Order era, Marsinah is now honored with the nation’s highest recognition — the title of National Hero of Indonesia. (Red)