Universitas Trisakti held a poignant memorial ceremony to commemorate the dark tragedy in the history of the Indonesian nation, the May 12, 1998 Tragedy, on May 12, 2024. The event was attended by students, lecturers, staff, families of the victims, and invited guests who gathered at the Universitas Trisakti Field, the site that silently witnessed the tragic event, to reflect and remember together.

The tragedy that occurred 26 years ago brought deep sorrow to the entire Indonesian society. Universitas Trisakti attracted attention as the site of the shooting that resulted in the deaths of four students: Elang Mulia Lesmana, Heri Hertanto, Hafidin Royan, and Hendriawan Sie. The incident marked the peak of student demonstrations demanding reform and led to the collapse of the New Order regime.

The Rector of Universitas Trisakti, Prof. Dr. Ir. Kadarsah Suryadi, DEA, emphasized in his address the university’s commitment to commemorating the tragic event as a form of tribute to the reform heroes who fought for a better future for Indonesia. The Rector also called on all components of society to continue advocating for the values of justice, democracy, and human rights. The event proceeded solemnly, marked by homage to the victims through the laying of flowers at the sites where they were shot.

Although 26 years have passed, the memory of the May 12, 1998 Tragedy remains alive and inspires the younger generation to continue striving for the nation’s ideals. With a spirit of unity and justice, Universitas Trisakti is committed to making positive changes in building a better Indonesia. The tragedy serves as a valuable lesson for this nation to never forget the struggle for truth and justice.