RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has expressed his support for the proposal to award Prof. Dr. Achmad Mochtar the title of National Hero in recognition of his extraordinary service and sacrifice in the field of medicine. He said scientists have played an essential role in Indonesia's history and deserve national recognition alongside political and military figures.

Fadli made the remarks during his keynote address at the Indonesian Academy of Sciences (AIPI) seminar titled "The Nomination of Prof. Dr. Achmad Mochtar as a National Hero: Scientist, Martyr, and Hero of the Nation," held online from Jakarta on Tuesday August 4, 2026. The seminar explored Achmad Mochtar's contributions to medical science and his humanitarian service during one of Indonesia's most difficult historical periods.

The minister said Indonesia's history is shaped not only by political leaders, diplomats, and freedom fighters but also by scientists whose contributions have strengthened the nation. He stressed that figures in the field of medicine have made lasting contributions to Indonesia's development and national resilience.

"Prof. Dr. Achmad Mochtar is one of the most important figures in the history of Indonesian science. As a physician and head of the Eijkman Institute during the Japanese occupation, he sacrificed his own life to protect his colleagues. In my view, that was an extraordinary act of heroism," Fadli said.

He noted that Achmad Mochtar's sacrifice during events linked to the Romusha tragedy in Klender in August 1944 represents an act of courage that deserves lasting national remembrance. He also pointed out that only a limited number of scientists have so far been recognized as National Heroes.

"I fully support the nomination of Prof. Dr. Achmad Mochtar as a National Hero because of his extraordinary service and dedication. At a critical moment, he remained steadfast in defending his principles even when his own life was at stake. He should be remembered not only as a distinguished scientist, but also as a man of integrity who chose to sacrifice himself to protect his colleagues," he said.

In addition, the minister also commended the initiative led by academics, historians, and the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Indonesia to nominate Achmad Mochtar for the national honor. He noted that recognition for historical figures often comes too late, leaving many of their contributions unfamiliar to the wider public.

Fadli said the nomination is in line with President Prabowo Subianto's vision of recognizing more outstanding national figures from diverse fields as role models for younger generations. He added that the Ministry of Culture is committed to supporting the nomination process in accordance with Indonesia's prevailing laws and regulations.