Jakarta (ANTARA) – Every November 10, the Indonesian nation commemorates Heroes’ Day as a time to remember one of the greatest struggles in the history of independence.
This year, Heroes’ Day 2025 carries the theme “My heroes, my example: keep moving, continuing the fight”, an invitation to society to carry forward the values of courage, unity and sacrifice inherited from the fighters.
The designation of November 10 as Heroes’ Day cannot be separated from the heroic events in Surabaya in 1945. At that time, people and fighters from different regions united against the Allied troops who wanted to recolonize Indonesia.
A terrible battle broke out, known as the Battle of Surabaya, which became one of the largest battles in Indonesian history and a symbol of the nation’s courage in defending independence.
In the official guidelines for commemorating Heroes’ Day published by the Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs, the events of November 10 are described as an important milestone in the national struggle. The heroes who died in that period not only defended independence but also showed that independence must be defended with a spirit of unity and courage without hesitation.
Now, Heroes’ Day is not just about remembering the past, but about remembering that the spirit of struggle must live on in every generation. So why is November 10th Heroes’ Day? Check out the following review based on official guidelines from the Ministry of Social Affairs and various sources.
History November 10th is Heroes’ Day
When it began on November 10, 1945, Surabaya witnessed a major battle between Indonesian fighters and British troops. This battle was recorded as the first clash of Indonesian troops against the foreign army after the proclamation of 17 August 1945. The scale and tenacity of the popular struggle made it one of the most decisive battles of the Indonesian national revolution, as well as a symbol of the nation’s determination to reject colonialism.
After the ceasefire, tensions rose again
Even though a ceasefire had been agreed on 29 October 1945, the atmosphere in Surabaya was not really conducive. Armed contacts were still frequent between fighters and British soldiers. The situation became increasingly heated after Brigadier General Mallaby, the British commander in East Java, was killed in an accident on 30 October 1945.
The British ultimatum was rejected by the people of Surabaya
Mallaby’s death provoked a strong reaction from England. Major General Eric Carden Robert Mansergh, his successor, issued an ultimatum demanding Indonesian fighters hand over their weapons and stop resistance to AFNEI and NICA. All leaders of the struggle were even ordered to be present on November 10, 1945 at 06:00 at a pre-arranged time.
However, the people of Surabaya have categorically rejected these demands. This firm attitude then triggered the outbreak of fierce fighting on 10 November 1945.
Surabaya became a “hell” of battle
For about three weeks the city of Surabaya turned into a terrible battlefield. The losses were enormous: around 20,000 people died, most of them civilians.
Additionally, more than 150,000 residents were forced to flee the city. On the British side, approximately 1,600 soldiers were killed, missing or wounded, and much of their war equipment was destroyed.
The tenacity of the people of Surabaya overwhelmed the British troops, as if they were “baking in the hell of war”. Thanks to this boundless courage, Surabaya became known as the City of Heroes.
November 10 is immortalized as Heroes’ Day
The sacrifices of the fighters who never gave up led to November 10 being designated as Heroes’ Day. This moment is a form of appreciation for the courage and sincerity of the heroes in defending the nation’s independence.
Important figures in the Battle of Surabaya
Several national heroes played an important role in this historic event, including:
• KH. Hasyim Asy’ari
• Governor Suryo
• Tomo cap
• Moestopo
Their enthusiasm towards all the people of Surabaya is an important legacy that continues to inspire the struggles of the next Indonesian generation.
Also Read: Various Activities for Heroes’ Day 2025 at Central, Regional and Abroad Levels
Read also: Guidelines for the implementation of the Heroes’ Day 2025 “moment of silence” for 60 seconds
Read also: Heroes’ Day Ceremony 2025: program, calendar of events and official guidelines
Reporter: Sean Anggiatheda Sitorus
Publisher: Alviansyah Pasaribu
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