UNAIR NEWS – To commemorate Indonesia’s National Heroes’ Day on Monday (Nov. 10, 2025), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) held a flag-raising ceremony in front of the Management Office at the MERR-C Campus. Members of the academic community attended the solemn event, which also aligned with UNAIR’s 71st anniversary celebration.
Modern-day heroes
Presiding the ceremony, UNAIR Rector Prof. Dr. Muhammad Madyan, S.E., M.Si., M.Fin., delivered a reflective message on the meaning of heroism today. He highlighted that Surabaya, known as the City of Heroes, remains a symbol of unwavering courage and resilience.
From this city, he said, Indonesia’s fighters taught the nation that true independence extends beyond breaking free from colonialism. It includes the freedom to think, to explore, and to create. “Our struggles today are not fought with sharpened bamboo or firearms,” he noted. “They are carried out with intelligence, knowledge, and research that benefit society.”
Prof. Madyan continued by emphasizing that modern heroes are those who embody a commitment to knowledge and public service, values that continue to shape UNAIR as a university devoted to excellence and global impact.
Over its 71-year history, UNAIR has served as a launchpad for doctors, scientists, leaders, and national contributors who advance progress through science and meaningful work. “UNAIR is a home for innovation, integrity, and humanity,” he said.
Carrying forward spirit of heroism
Coinciding with World Science Day for Peace and Development, Prof. Madyan encouraged the UNAIR community to become champions of innovation by applying scientific knowledge to drive positive change. “Use science and conscience to build peace,” he urged. “Real heroism is not about recognition, it is about making a difference for the people.”
He reaffirmed that under the principle of Excellence with Morality, UNAIR will continue pursuing its mission of becoming a World Class University that delivers real contributions to national progress and humanitarian advancement.
In closing, Prof. Madyan called on participants to honor the legacy of Indonesia’s heroes in their own way, through discipline, integrity, and a commitment to science for humanity. “Let us carry forward the spirit of heroism and innovation. Happy Heroes’ Day, Happy World Science Day, and Happy 71st Anniversary of Universitas Airlangga,” he concluded.
Author: Rizma Elyza
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
