During the Commemoration of the Seconds of Proclamation at the Merdeka Palace, a significant moment took place that captured the attention of the attendees. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, with deep reverence, kissed the national flag, the Red-and-White (Merah Putih), before handing it over to the Heritage Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka). This symbolic gesture marked a new nuance in the country’s state ceremony traditions.
Paskibraka then passed the flag to Farrel Argantha Irawan, a student from Highscope Indonesia TB Simatupang Senior High School, who had the honor of hoisting the flag this year. This act symbolized the spirit of the youth in the city safeguarding the nation’s dignity. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Indonesia’s 7th President Joko Widodo and 6th President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who witnessed the flag-raising ceremony alongside other distinguished guests.
As the Red-and-White flag ascended to the top of the flagpole, attendees stood tall to the sound of the national anthem, Indonesia Raya. The solemn moment was met with respectful salutes from the crowd. Following the completion of the procession, white doves were released into the palace courtyard, symbolizing peace and national unity, as they soared across Jakarta’s skies.
The Independence Day commemoration was filled with meaningful gestures and symbolic acts that honored the nation’s heritage and spirit. It was a reminder of the importance of unity and respect for the country’s symbols and traditions, as the attendees came together to commemorate Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day.
