Marhum Pekan to receive National Hero title in Jakarta

Sultan Muhammad Ali Abdul Jalil Muazzam Syah, known as Marhum Pekan, the founder of Pekanbaru, is scheduled to receive the National Hero title at the State Palace in Jakarta on November 10, 2026. The ceremony coincides with Heroes Day.

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho, accompanied by Sulastri Agung and heirs of Marhum Pekan, will attend the ceremony. The Mayor noted that the proposal for this recognition has been pursued since 1988. The announcement was previously communicated to the Mayor by Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon.

Marhum Pekan was the fifth Sultan of Siak Sri Indrapura. He is credited with developing the Senapelan area into a commercial hub, which served as the foundation for the growth of Pekanbaru, the capital of Riau Province. As part of the honors, the Ministry of Public Works has approved naming a city toll gate after him.