Sofjan was among 29 recipients granted medals by President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo in a ceremony at the State Palace on Thursday. The award was part of the annual celebrations to mark the country’s Independence Day, which falls on Aug. 17.

According to the 2009 Titles, Honors and Awards Law, Bintang Mahaputera medals are bestowed on individuals with distinguished service in various fields that contribute greatly to the state and the nation’s development, welfare and prosperity.

Jimly Asshiddiqie, the deputy chief of the Titles, Honors and Awards Board, said Sofjan was chosen as an awardee thanks to his contributions to supporting businesses.

“While working as a businessman, his service through corporate social responsibility has helped many in our communities. He also went beyond the call-of-duty by serving for the government, which is not an easy thing to do for a businessman,” Jimly told The Jakarta Post on Thursday.

Sofjan said he was grateful for the award, as it showed that the government acknowledged his services for the country. The 78-year-old businessman added that he would continue to serve the nation, as well as the people, despite his age.

“More importantly, the young generation should do the same. They should prove that they not only work for themselves, but also for the community and the nation. This should apply to every businessperson in the country, including the ones from minority groups,” Sofjan said.

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