1. Ahmed Sukarno

Ahmed Sukarno, known simply as “Sukarno,” is one of the most influential and beloved figures in Indonesian history. Born on June 6th, 1901, in Surabaya, Java, Sukarno would go on to become the first president of Indonesia and a champion of Indonesian independence.

Sukarno’s early life was marked by a passion for politics and a deep love for his country. He attended the Dutch-run Hogere Burgerschool in Surabaya, where he first became involved in the Indonesian nationalist movement. In 1927, he became the leader of the Indonesian Nationalist Party (PNI) and began advocating for Indonesian independence from Dutch colonial rule. Over the next two decades, Sukarno became one of the most prominent voices in the fight for Indonesian independence. He was arrested several times by Dutch authorities and spent years in prison, but he never wavered in his commitment to his cause.

Finally, in 1949, the Dutch agreed to grant Indonesia independence, and Sukarno became the country’s first president. He immediately set about creating a new government and building a new nation. Sukarno was a charismatic leader who was loved by the Indonesian people, and he worked tirelessly to improve their lives. Under Sukarno’s leadership, Indonesia made great strides in education, health care, and infrastructure development. He was also a staunch advocate of non-alignment and worked to build relationships with countries around the world, including the United States, China, and the Soviet Union. Sukarno’s legacy, however, is not without controversy. In the early 1960s, Indonesia was facing economic and political turmoil, and Sukarno’s leadership was called into question. In 1965, a group of army officers staged a coup and seized power from Sukarno.

The new regime was led by General Suharto, who would go on to rule Indonesia for the next 32 years. Sukarno was placed under house arrest and was eventually allowed to live out his remaining years in isolation. He died on June 21st, 1970, at the age of 69. Despite the controversies surrounding his later years, Sukarno remains a beloved figure in Indonesia. He is widely regarded as a national hero and a symbol of Indonesian independence and resilience. His legacy can be seen in the many buildings, monuments, and institutions that bear his name, as well as in the hearts and minds of the Indonesian people.

Sukarno’s vision for Indonesia was one of unity, strength, and independence. He believed that Indonesia could become a great nation, and he worked tirelessly to make that vision a reality. Today, Indonesia is a thriving democracy with a strong economy and a rich cultural heritage, and much of that can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of Sukarno and the other leaders who fought for Indonesian independence. In many ways, Sukarno was ahead of his time. He recognized the importance of national unity and diversity long before these concepts became popular, and he was a vocal advocate of non-alignment and diplomacy at a time when many countries were locked in Cold War rivalries.

Sukarno’s legacy continues to inspire Indonesians today, and his vision for Indonesia remains as relevant as ever. As Indonesia continues to grow and develop, it will always be rooted in the values of independence, unity, and strength that Sukarno championed throughout his life.

2. Joko Widodo

Joko Widodo often referred to as Jokowi, is the current President of Indonesia, having taken office in October 2014. He is known for his humble beginnings, his focus on infrastructure development, and his commitment to clean governance.

Born in the small town of Surakarta in Central Java in 1961, Jokowi grew up in a working-class family. His father was a carpenter and his mother sold homemade snacks in a traditional market. Despite their modest means, his parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and a sense of integrity. After completing his education, Jokowi started a furniture business, which he grew into a successful enterprise. His experience as an entrepreneur and his reputation for clean and efficient management led to his being elected as the Mayor of Surakarta in 2005.

As Mayor, Jokowi gained a reputation for being hands-on and innovative. He introduced programs such as a free healthcare scheme for the poor, a city-wide garbage collection system, and a program to provide low-cost housing for residents. He also promoted cultural events to boost tourism and improve the quality of life for Surakarta’s residents.

In 2012, Jokowi was elected as the Governor of Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. During his time in office, he continued his focus on infrastructure development, including building new roads and public transportation systems. He also introduced measures to address Jakarta’s chronic flooding problems, such as the construction of new canals and reservoirs.

In 2014, Jokowi was elected as President of Indonesia, defeating his opponent by a wide margin. As President, he has continued his focus on infrastructure development, launching ambitious programs such as the construction of new toll roads, airports, and seaports. He has also introduced measures to reduce corruption and promote good governance, including the establishment of an e-procurement system to increase transparency in government procurement.

One of Jokowi’s most notable achievements as President has been his commitment to education. He has introduced a program to provide free education to elementary and junior high school students and has also increased funding for higher education. His focus on education is seen as crucial in a country where a large percentage of the population is under-educated.

Jokowi’s commitment to clean governance has also earned him praise both domestically and internationally. He has taken steps to address corruption in the civil service and has launched investigations into corrupt officials. He has also introduced measures to increase transparency in government, such as the mandatory public disclosure of asset declarations by government officials.

Despite his successes, Jokowi has faced criticism from some quarters. His focus on infrastructure development has led to concerns about environmental impact, and his attempts to reform the legal system have been met with resistance from conservative elements within the judiciary.

Joko Widodo has emerged as one of Indonesia’s most successful and popular leaders in recent years. His focus on infrastructure development, education, and clean governance has won him widespread support among the Indonesian people. While he still faces challenges, his commitment to his vision for Indonesia’s future remains unwavering.

3. Megawati Sukarnoputri

Megawati Sukarnoputri is a prominent Indonesian politician and the current chairperson of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P). She is the daughter of Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, and was the country’s fifth president, serving from 2001 to 2004.

Born in Yogyakarta in 1947, Megawati grew up in the shadow of her father, who was a major figure in Indonesian politics and the country’s fight for independence from Dutch colonial rule. After Sukarno was deposed in a coup in 1965, Megawati’s family was placed under house arrest, and she was forbidden from pursuing her education. In the years that followed, Megawati became increasingly involved in politics, particularly after her husband, Taufiq Kiemas, was elected to parliament. She became a leader in the PDI-P and was elected as its chairperson in 1993.

In 1999, Megawati ran for president and won a majority of the popular vote. However, she was denied the presidency by the country’s political elite, who chose Abdurrahman Wahid instead. Megawati became the vice president under Wahid but was eventually able to assume the presidency in 2001 after Wahid was impeached.

As president, Megawati faced numerous challenges, including the aftermath of the 2002 Bali bombings and a struggling economy. She was also criticized for her perceived lack of leadership and her reluctance to make bold decisions. Despite these challenges, Megawati remained a popular figure in Indonesian politics, particularly among the country’s poorer and rural populations. She was known for her commitment to social justice and her support for a more equitable distribution of wealth in Indonesia. After leaving office, Megawati returned to her role as chairperson of the PDI-P and has remained an influential figure in Indonesian politics. She has continued to advocate for social justice and has been a vocal critic of corruption and the influence of foreign powers in Indonesian politics.

Megawati’s legacy as a politician is complex, with both her supporters and detractors. Some see her as a champion of democracy and social justice, while others criticize her for her perceived lack of leadership and her perceived tendency to rely on others to make decisions. Regardless of one’s opinion of Megawati, there is no doubt that she has played a significant role in Indonesian politics over the past few decades. Her commitment to social justice and her efforts to promote a more equitable distribution of wealth in Indonesia have made her a popular figure among the country’s poorer and rural populations.

As Indonesia continues to grapple with the challenges of democracy and economic development, Megawati’s legacy will continue to be an important part of the country’s political landscape. Whether her influence will be positive or negative remains to be seen, but there is no doubt that her impact on Indonesian politics will be felt for years to come.

4. Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie

Bacharuddin Jusuf Habibie, more commonly known as B.J. Habibie, was a prominent Indonesian engineer and politician who served as the third president of Indonesia from 1998 to 1999. He is best known for his work in the aerospace industry and for his efforts to modernize Indonesia’s economy during his brief presidency.

Habibie was born in Parepare, South Sulawesi, in 1936. He was educated in Indonesia and later earned a degree in aviation engineering from the Technical University of Aachen in Germany. After completing his studies, Habibie worked for several years in the aerospace industry in Germany, where he became known for his expertise in the design and construction of aircraft.

In 1974, Habibie returned to Indonesia and was appointed by President Suharto to head the newly created Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT). In this role, Habibie was responsible for promoting the development of technology and industry in Indonesia, particularly in the aerospace and telecommunications sectors. Under Habibie’s leadership, Indonesia made significant strides in developing its aerospace industry. In the 1980s, Habibie oversaw the construction of the country’s first aircraft, the IPTN N-250, which was designed and built entirely in Indonesia. He also played a key role in the establishment of Indonesian Aerospace (IAe), a state-owned company that produced a range of aircraft and aerospace components.

In 1998, Habibie became president of Indonesia after Suharto resigned in the wake of widespread protests and economic turmoil. Habibie’s presidency was marked by his efforts to modernize Indonesia’s economy and political system, as well as by his commitment to democratic reform.

During his brief presidency, Habibie implemented a range of economic reforms, including the liberalization of the banking sector and the removal of restrictions on foreign investment. He also introduced a series of measures aimed at improving Indonesia’s human rights record, including the release of political prisoners and the establishment of a national human rights commission.

Despite these efforts, Habibie’s presidency was marred by controversy, particularly in the wake of the violence that erupted in East Timor following its vote for independence in 1999. Habibie was criticized for his handling of the situation and for his decision to allow an UN-supervised referendum in East Timor, which many argued was a ploy to maintain Indonesia’s control over the territory.

After leaving office, Habibie continued to be an influential figure in Indonesian politics and society. He was a vocal advocate for democracy and human rights and was widely respected for his contributions to the country’s development.

Habibie passed away in 2019 at the age of 83. His legacy as an engineer, politician, and advocate for democracy and economic development in Indonesia remains a significant part of the country’s history. While his presidency was marked by controversy, there is no doubt that his contributions to Indonesia’s aerospace industry and his efforts to modernize the country’s economy have had a lasting impact on the nation’s development.

5. Basuki Tjahaja Purnama

Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, commonly known as Ahok, is an Indonesian politician and former governor of Jakarta who rose to national prominence for his efforts to combat corruption and improve governance in the country’s capital. Ahok was born in Manggar, Bangka Belitung, in 1966. He studied at Trisakti University in Jakarta, where he earned a degree in geology. After completing his studies, Ahok worked in the private sector for several years before entering politics in the early 2000s.

Ahok’s political career began when he was appointed as regent of East Belitung in 2005. He later served as a member of the Indonesian parliament before being appointed as deputy governor of Jakarta in 2012. In 2014, Ahok became the first Christian and ethnic Chinese governor of Jakarta, a position he held until 2017. As governor, Ahok was widely praised for his efforts to improve infrastructure, tackle corruption, and promote transparency in government.

One of Ahok’s most notable achievements as governor was his success in cleaning up the notoriously corrupt bureaucracy in Jakarta. He implemented a range of measures aimed at improving accountability and transparency, including the establishment of an online system for tracking government projects and spending. Ahok was also a strong advocate for improving public services and infrastructure in Jakarta. During his time as governor, he oversaw the construction of a number of new public transportation projects, including the Jakarta MRT, the first subway system in Indonesia.

Despite his popularity and reputation for effective governance, Ahok’s tenure as governor was marred by controversy. In 2016, he was accused of blasphemy for allegedly insulting Islam during a campaign speech. The accusation sparked widespread protests and calls for his resignation, and Ahok was eventually sentenced to two years in prison. The trial and conviction of Ahok were widely criticized both within Indonesia and internationally, with many arguing that the charges were politically motivated and that Ahok had been unfairly targeted because of his religion and ethnicity.

Since his release from prison in 2019, Ahok has largely stayed out of the public eye. However, his legacy as a reform-minded governor and advocate for a clean and effective government remains an important part of Indonesia’s political history. Despite the challenges he faced during his time as governor, Ahok’s efforts to combat corruption and improve governance in Jakarta have had a lasting impact on the country. His commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective governance continues to inspire a new generation of Indonesian politicians and public servants.

Basuki Tjahaja Purnama, also known as Ahok, is a former governor of Jakarta who is widely recognized for his efforts to combat corruption and improve governance in Indonesia’s capital. While his tenure as governor was marred by controversy, his commitment to transparency, accountability, and effective governance continues to inspire a new generation of Indonesian leaders.

6. Abdurrahman Wahid

Abdurrahman Wahid, also known as Gus Dur, was an Indonesian Muslim leader and politician who served as the country’s fourth president from 1999 to 2001. He is widely recognized for his efforts to promote democracy, pluralism, and tolerance in Indonesia, and is considered one of the most important figures in the country’s modern political history.

Wahid was born in Jombang, East Java, in 1940. He came from a prominent family of Muslim scholars and leaders and was raised in an environment that emphasized the importance of education and social justice. Wahid himself went on to become a respected Islamic scholar and leader and was known for his moderate and inclusive views.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Wahid emerged as a leading voice in the Indonesian Muslim community, and played a key role in the establishment of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), one of the country’s largest and most influential Islamic organizations. He was also a vocal critic of the authoritarian government of President Suharto, and was a key figure in the pro-democracy movement that eventually led to Suharto’s ouster in 1998.

In the wake of Suharto’s resignation, Wahid was elected as president by the Indonesian parliament. He took office in October 1999 and immediately set about implementing a range of reforms aimed at promoting democracy, pluralism, and tolerance in the country. One of Wahid’s most notable achievements as president was his efforts to promote religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue in Indonesia, which has the world’s largest Muslim population. He was a vocal advocate for a moderate and inclusive form of Islam that rejected extremism and sectarianism and was widely respected by members of other faiths for his efforts to build bridges between different religious communities.

Wahid was also committed to promoting democracy and human rights in Indonesia. He oversaw the establishment of a number of new democratic institutions, including an independent anti-corruption commission and a human rights commission. He was also a strong advocate for press freedom and frequently criticized efforts by the government to restrict the media.

Despite his many accomplishments, Wahid’s presidency was marked by controversy and turmoil. He was frequently criticized for his unconventional style of leadership, which was seen by some as erratic and unpredictable. He also faced significant opposition from conservative Muslim groups, who accused him of being too liberal and not sufficiently Islamic.

In 2001, Wahid was impeached by the Indonesian parliament, largely due to his handling of the conflict in the province of Aceh. He was succeeded by his vice president, Megawati Sukarnoputri. Wahid continued to be an important figure in Indonesian politics and society after leaving office. He remained active in the NU and other Islamic organizations and continued to advocate for democracy, pluralism, and tolerance in the country. He passed away in 2009 at the age of 69.

Abdurrahman Wahid was a respected Muslim leader and politician who played a key role in the pro-democracy movement that led to the downfall of President Suharto. As president, he implemented a range of reforms aimed at promoting democracy, pluralism, and tolerance in Indonesia, and was widely respected for his efforts to build bridges between different religious communities. While his presidency was marked by controversy and turmoil, his legacy as a champion of democratic values and religious tolerance continues to be an important part of Indonesia’s political history.

7. Pramoedya Ananta Toer

Pramoedya Ananta Toer was an Indonesian author and activist who is widely regarded as one of the most important literary figures in the country’s history. He is best known for his novels, which explore the themes of social injustice, colonialism, and national identity.

Pramoedya was born in Blora, Central Java, in 1925. He grew up in a family of poor peasants and was exposed to the harsh realities of colonialism and social inequality from a young age. Despite his difficult upbringing, he developed a passion for writing and storytelling and began publishing his work in the 1950s.

Pramoedya’s early works were influenced by the social realist and communist movements of the time. His novels, including “The Fugitive” and “The Mute’s Soliloquy,” dealt with the struggles of ordinary people against oppressive political and economic systems.

In the 1960s, Pramoedya became more politically active and was involved in the Indonesian Communist Party. However, after the party was banned in 1965, he was arrested and imprisoned without trial by the Suharto regime, which had taken power in a military coup. Pramoedya spent nearly 15 years in prison, during which time he continued to write and publish his work. His most famous novel, “Buru Quartet,” was written during this period, and tells the story of Indonesia’s struggle for independence and the subsequent post-colonial period.

Despite the harsh conditions of his imprisonment, Pramoedya remained committed to his principles of social justice and human rights. He was a vocal critic of the Suharto regime, and his work was banned in Indonesia for many years.

After his release from prison in 1979, Pramoedya continued to write and publish his work. His later works, including “Tales from Djakarta” and “The Girl from the Coast,” were more personal in nature, and dealt with themes such as love, family, and the complexities of Indonesian society.

Pramoedya’s writing has had a profound impact on Indonesian literature and culture. His novels are considered to be some of the most important works of fiction in the country’s history and have been translated into dozens of languages. However, Pramoedya’s legacy is not just limited to his literary achievements. He was also a passionate advocate for human rights and social justice and was involved in a number of political and social movements throughout his life.

Pramoedya passed away in 2006 at the age of 81, but his legacy continues to be felt in Indonesia and beyond. His work has inspired generations of writers and activists, and his commitment to social justice and human rights remains an important part of Indonesia’s cultural and political history.

Pramoedya Ananta Toer was a pioneering Indonesian author and activist whose work has had a profound impact on the country’s cultural and political history. His novels, which explore the themes of social injustice, colonialism, and national identity, are considered to be some of the most important works of fiction in Indonesia’s history. Pramoedya’s commitment to human rights and social justice continues to inspire generations of writers and activists, and his legacy remains an important part of Indonesia’s cultural and political landscape.

8. Rudy Hartono

Rudy Hartono is a former Indonesian badminton player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time. He dominated the sport in the 1970s, winning eight All-England Open titles and four World Championships.

Hartono was born in Surabaya, Indonesia, in 1949. He began playing badminton at a young age, and quickly developed a reputation as a talented and skilled player. He joined the national team in the late 1960s and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the country.

Hartono’s breakthrough came in 1968 when he won his first All-England Open title. He went on to win the tournament a record eight times in total, a feat that has never been matched by any other player. Hartono’s dominance was not limited to the All-England Open, however. He also won four World Championships and was a key player in Indonesia’s successful Thomas Cup teams of the 1970s.

Hartono was known for his exceptional skill and agility on the court. He was a master of deception and was able to outmaneuver his opponents with ease. His speed and reflexes were also legendary, and he was able to retrieve seemingly impossible shots. Hartono retired from competitive badminton in 1980, but his legacy continues to be felt in the sport today. He inspired a generation of players in Indonesia and around the world, and his style of play has influenced many of the game’s top players.

In addition to his success on the court, Hartono was also known for his sportsmanship and humility. He was always gracious in victory and defeat and was widely respected by his peers and fans alike. After retiring from competitive badminton, Hartono became a coach and mentor to young players in Indonesia. He was also involved in promoting the sport in the country and played a key role in the development of the Indonesian Badminton Association.

In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Hartono was inducted into the Badminton World Federation Hall of Fame in 1997. Rudy Hartono is a legendary figure in the world of badminton. His dominance of the sport in the 1970s, including eight All-England Open titles and four World Championships, has cemented his place in the history of the game. Hartono’s exceptional skill and agility on the court, combined with his sportsmanship and humility off the court, have inspired a generation of players in Indonesia and around the world. His legacy continues to be felt in the sport today, and he remains an important figure in the development of badminton in Indonesia and beyond.

9. Harry Tanoesoedibjo

Harry Tanoesoedibjo is a prominent Indonesian businessman who has made significant contributions to the country’s media, entertainment, and real estate industries. He is the founder and CEO of MNC Group, one of Indonesia’s largest media companies, and has been involved in a number of high-profile projects both in Indonesia and abroad.

Tanoesoedibjo was born in Surabaya, Indonesia, in 1965. He began his career in the early 1990s as a real estate developer, focusing on high-end properties in Jakarta and Bali. He quickly gained a reputation as a savvy businessman with a talent for identifying profitable opportunities. In the mid-1990s, Tanoesoedibjo turned his attention to the media industry. He founded MNC Group, which initially focused on producing television shows and movies for the Indonesian market. The company quickly grew, and today it is one of the largest media conglomerates in Southeast Asia.

Under Tanoesoedibjo’s leadership, MNC Group has expanded into a wide range of industries, including broadcasting, print media, and online platforms. The company also owns a number of high-end hotels and resorts, as well as several theme parks and other entertainment venues. In addition to his work with MNC Group, Tanoesoedibjo has been involved in a number of other high-profile projects. He was the driving force behind the construction of the Trump International Hotel and Tower in Bali, which opened in 2018. He has also been involved in the development of several other luxury properties in Indonesia and elsewhere.

Tanoesoedibjo has been recognized for his contributions to the Indonesian business community. He has received a number of awards and honors, including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award for Indonesia in 2010. Despite his success, Tanoesoedibjo has faced some controversy in recent years. He has been accused of conflicts of interest in his business dealings, and there have been questions raised about his political connections.

Nevertheless, Tanoesoedibjo remains an important figure in the Indonesian business community. His success with MNC Group and his involvement in high-profile projects both in Indonesia and abroad have helped to put the country on the map as a major player in the global business world.

Harry Tanoesoedibjo is a prominent Indonesian businessman who has made significant contributions to the country’s media, entertainment, and real estate industries. His leadership of MNC Group has helped to establish the company as one of the largest media conglomerates in Southeast Asia, and his involvement in high-profile projects both in Indonesia and abroad has helped to put the country on the map as a major player in the global business world. While he has faced some controversy in recent years, Tanoesoedibjo’s achievements cannot be denied, and he remains an important figure in the Indonesian business community.

10.  Iko Uwais

Indonesia has a vibrant and thriving film industry, with many talented actors who have gained international recognition for their work. One of the most renowned and powerful actors from Indonesia is Iko Uwais.

Born in Jakarta in 1983, Uwais began his career as a professional silat (a type of Indonesian martial art) athlete before making the transition to acting. He gained his first major role in the 2009 film “Merantau,” which was directed by Welsh filmmaker Gareth Evans. Uwais’s breakthrough performance came in Evans’s 2011 film “The Raid: Redemption.” The movie, which was praised for its innovative action sequences and intense pacing, earned Uwais international acclaim and helped to establish him as one of the most talented actors in the Indonesian film industry.

Since “The Raid,” Uwais has appeared in a number of other high-profile films, both in Indonesia and abroad. He played a supporting role in the 2014 Hollywood film “The Raid 2,” and has also appeared in the Netflix series “Marco Polo” and the film “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

Uwais is known for his physicality and athleticism on screen, which he attributes to his background in silat. He has also been praised for his ability to bring depth and nuance to his performances, particularly in his portrayal of characters who are struggling with internal conflicts. In addition to his work as an actor, Uwais has also been involved in several film projects as a fight choreographer and stunt coordinator. He has collaborated frequently with Gareth Evans, helping to design and execute the intricate fight sequences that have become a trademark of their work. Uwais’s success has made him one of the most influential and powerful actors in Indonesia. He has helped to raise the profile of the country’s film industry and has been an ambassador for Indonesian culture and martial arts around the world.

Iko Uwais is a renowned and powerful actor from Indonesia who has gained international recognition for his work in film. He is known for his physicality and athleticism on screen, as well as his ability to bring depth and nuance to his performances. His success has helped to raise the profile of Indonesia’s film industry and has made him an influential figure in the country’s cultural landscape. With his talent and dedication, Uwais is sure to continue making waves in the world of film for many years to come.