Pekanbaru founder Marhum Pekan to receive national hero title
The award is scheduled for Nov. 10 at the State Palace, ending a nomination effort that began in 1988.
Sultan Muhammad Ali Abdul Jalil Muazzam Syah, or Marhum Pekan, is scheduled to receive the title of National Hero on Tuesday, Nov. 10, coinciding with Heroes' Day. Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho said he will attend the State Palace with Marhum Pekan's heirs. According to Agung, the news was delivered by Culture Minister Fadli Zon during their meeting. Marhum Pekan was the 5th Sultan of Siak Sri Indrapura and is known as the founder of Pekanbaru. He continued developing the Senapelan area until it grew into a trading center and the forerunner of Pekanbaru city. He is also remembered for his resistance to the Dutch in Pulau Guntung, Siak Regency. Efforts to name him a national hero have been pursued since 1988.