Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto on Monday conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian honor -- the Star of the Republic of Indonesia, First Class (Bintang Republik Indonesia Utama) -- on several prominent national figures, including parliamentary leaders, cabinet members, and cultural icons.

The ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta as part of the country’s annual Independence Day commemorations.

Top Legislators Honored
House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Puan Maharani received the award for her contributions to politics and national development, particularly her leadership in strengthening the role of parliament and advocating for greater participation of women in politics.

Other recipients included Ahmad Muzani, Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), recognized for advancing democratic governance and public oversight, and Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, Deputy Speaker of the DPR, cited for his role in safeguarding strategic national regulations and reinforcing Indonesia’s democratic system.

The honor was also awarded to Sultan Bachtiar Najamudin, Deputy Speaker of the Regional Representative Council (DPD), for his advocacy in youth empowerment, regional economic development, and political participation at the grassroots level.

Cabinet Ministers and Cultural Figures Recognized
In addition to legislative leaders, several senior ministers from Prabowo’s “Red and White Cabinet” were also decorated, including Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan, Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman, Foreign Minister Sugiono, Culture Minister Fadli Zon, and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indrawijaya.

Prabowo also extended the honor posthumously to cultural luminaries such as legendary singer Benyamin Sueb and acclaimed performer Titiek Puspa, alongside living artists including Jaja Miharja and renowned sculptor I Nyoman Nuarta, in recognition of their lasting contributions to Indonesian arts and culture.

In his address, Prabowo expressed gratitude on behalf of the nation: “To those whose parents are no longer with us, to their heirs, on behalf of the Republic of Indonesia, we thank you for their service. May their contributions continue to inspire future generations.”

The conferment of national honors is a longstanding tradition held annually to commemorate Indonesia’s Independence Day, recognizing citizens who have made significant contributions in politics, governance, culture, and public service.