CCN, Cilegon, June 14, 2024 –The Research and Review Team for Central Titles (TP2GP) from the Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemensos RI) has taken concrete steps to follow up on the proposal from Cilegon City, Banten Province, regarding the nomination of KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas as a National Hero. This proposal is closely related to the Geger Cilegon event in 1888, a heroic resistance against Dutch colonialism.
The meeting held at the KH. Wasyid Foundation in Barokah, Rt.01/13, Jombang Wetan, Kec. Jombang, Cilegon City, Banten, was attended by the Banten Provincial Social Service, Cilegon City Social Service, Cilegon City Education and Culture Office, and the family of KH. Wasyid.
The proposal is based on Law Number 20 of 2009 concerning Titles, Decorations, and Honors, and Government Regulation Number 35 of 2010 concerning the Implementation of Law Number 20 of 2009. These regulations govern the criteria and procedures for awarding the title of National Hero to those who have rendered extraordinary services to the nation and state.
One of the TP2GP members from Kemensos RI, Alfan Alfian, stated that they greatly appreciate the proposal from Cilegon City and are conducting an in-depth study on the history and contributions of KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas in the struggle against colonialists.
“From the comprehensive academic studies and Dutch newspaper and archive documents submitted, KH. Wasyid was the main figure in the Geger Cilegon 1888 event. This significant event drew particular attention from the colonial authorities,” said Alfan Alfian.
KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas played a very significant role in the Geger Cilegon event. For the determination as a National Hero, an in-depth study and thorough verification in accordance with applicable regulations are required. This process involves collecting historical evidence, documents, and testimonies from various parties.
H. Mansur Muhidin, one of a descendant of KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas, welcomed the arrival of the TP2GP Kemensos RI team. “History is a valuable legacy for future generations. The KH. Wasyid Foundation was established as a living monument. KH. Wasyid was a leader of the Geger Cilegon 1888 and is known as a scholar. Hopefully, on this auspicious day, approaching Eid al-Adha, KH. Wasyid will be chosen as a National Hero,” concluded Mansur Muhidin, who also recited a prayer of Al-Fatihah together.
Similarly, the Chairman of the KH. Wasyid Foundation, H. Asep Sofwatullah, expressed that this recognition is not only a source of pride for the family but also for the entire community of Cilegon and Banten who have long fought for recognition of KH. Wasyid’s services.
“We are very grateful to the local government of Cilegon City and Banten Province, the Mayor of Cilegon, and the Governor of Banten, especially Kemensos RI, for following up on this proposal. KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas is a very influential figure in the history of the struggle against colonialists in Cilegon. We hope this process goes smoothly and he can be recognized as a National Hero,” said H. Asep Sofwatullah.
The Geger Cilegon event of 1888 was one of the forms of resistance by the people of Banten against the oppressive Dutch colonial policies. KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas, a charismatic scholar, was one of the main figures leading the resistance. His bravery and determination in facing the colonizers have become an inspiration for the people of Cilegon and its surroundings.
With the support of TP2GP Kemensos RI and appreciation from various parties, it is hoped that the process of proposing the title of National Hero for KH. Wasyid Bin H. Abbas can soon be realized. This recognition will serve as a symbol of honor for his services in fighting for the independence and sovereignty of the Indonesian nation.
Reporter: Ahdi Zukhruf Amri
