Indonesia’s National Heroes Day, or Hari Pahlawan is celebrated on November 10 each year. The day commemorates the Battle of Surabaya, which took place on November 10, 1945, during the Indonesian National Revolution. The day honours the heroes who fought for Indonesia’s freedom and independence from colonial forces.

The Battle of Surabaya was against British forces attempting to reoccupy Indonesia on behalf of the Dutch. However, it was a turning point for the Dutch who came to realize that the Republic of Indonesia was a country with the support of the whole population and not just a group of rebels.

K’tut Tantri was born Muriel Stuart Walker, a Scottish American woman who lived in Bali and who wrote the book, Revolt in Paradise. She was best known for her work in support of the Indonesian Republicans when she had a regular radio broadcast from Surabaya during the Indonesian National Revolution. Due to this work she was referred to as ‘Surabaya Sue’ by British and Dutch news correspondents.