Indonesia pledges enhanced support for veterans on National Veterans' Day
Defense officials renew commitment to improving welfare for Indonesian veterans during commemorations at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, where more than 7,000 independence fighters are laid to rest.
Indonesia pledges enhanced support for veterans on National Veterans' Day
Indonesia's Defense Ministry pledged renewed efforts to enhance the welfare of the nation's veterans during National Veterans' Day commemorations on Monday, marking a day of remembrance first established by President Soekarno in 1957 to honor freedom fighters from the Indonesian War of Independence.
Lieutenant General Gabriel Lema, Chief of the National Reserve Agency, reaffirmed the government's commitment during a visit to Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta, the nation's primary military cemetery where more than 7,000 military casualties and veterans from the 1945-1949 independence struggle are interred.
The Defense Ministry, the Defense Minister, and others will strive to improve it continually.
Lieutenant General Lema stated, emphasizing the government's determination to address veterans' needs through collaboration with the Veterans' Legion of Indonesia (LVRI).
Veterans' Legion of Indonesia
The LVRI, established in January 1957 as Indonesia's national ex-service organization, represents veterans under legislation passed by the People's Representative Council in August 1967. The organization, which is also a member of the World Veterans Federation, was founded through a National Veterans General Assembly in Jakarta that brought together 2,300 delegates representing more than a million veterans who participated in the national revolution.
Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoedin, who assumed office as Indonesia's 27th Defense Minister in October 2024, is scheduled to preside over the main National Veterans' Day event on Wednesday, August 12.
Lieutenant General Lema emphasized the ministry's readiness to synchronize operations with LVRI, led by General (Ret.) Mantiri.
We will ensure that their needs are met, as it is our responsibility as the next generation to carry forward the contributions they have made to our nation.
Government benefits for veterans
The government currently provides veterans with various benefits including:
- Healthcare services
- Education scholarships and grants for higher education or vocational training
- Housing assistance through subsidized programs and home loan support
General (Ret.) Mantiri welcomed the Defense Ministry's commitment, expressing gratitude for the ongoing improvements.
We do hope the improvement will continue year by year. It is very meaningful to us; we thank you.
Historical significance
While National Veterans' Day was originally established in 1957, its status as an official observance was formalized through a presidential decree by President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in 2014.
The Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, built in 1953 and opened on November 10, 1954, serves as the National Main Heroes' Cemetery. Monday's commemorative visit followed a health charity event for veterans held at the Defense Ministry on August 4.
Lieutenant General Lema expressed hope that the nationalism, patriotism, and commitment demonstrated by veterans will continue to inspire younger generations of Indonesians.