On November 10, 2025, the State Palace announced Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin, the 14th Sultan of Bima, as a new national hero. The recognition coincides with Heroes' Day and marks over a decade of efforts by the Bima community. The Sultan, who led Bima from 1915 to 1951, is noted for his contributions to Indonesia's independence struggle.
November 10, 2025, marks a historic moment for the people of Bima and West Nusa Tenggara. The State Palace officially announced new national heroes, including Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin. The announcement was made by President Prabowo Subianto as part of Heroes' Day commemorations, honoring those who fought for independence and humanity.
Sultan Muhammad Salahuddin led the Bima Sultanate from 1915 to 1951. Amid Dutch colonial pressures, he centered policies on the people, opening access to education, strengthening the local economy, and preserving national values before Indonesia's independence. During the tense lead-up to freedom, the Sultan led Bima to break free from Dutch control for 103 days, a rare event in eastern Indonesia.
His most significant political action was the Proclamation of November 22, 1945, declaring full loyalty of the Bima Sultanate to the newly established Republic of Indonesia. This decision came amid uncertainty, when many regions wavered between colonial submission or joining the young republic. With courage, the Sultan relinquished much of his traditional power, transforming long-standing structures, and integrating Bima into the emerging republic.
This recognition caps over a decade of efforts by the Bima community to secure national acknowledgment of the Sultan's services. The selection process involved a limited meeting with Culture Minister Fadli Zon, Chair of the Awards, Services, and Honors Council, along with input from DPR and MPR leaders. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stated that the announcement honors the nation's forebears.
The Sultan's contributions affirm that patriotism emerged not only in Java or Sumatra but also in eastern lands like Bima, where power served devotion and public welfare.