Independence Day celebration in Indonesia took on a different vibe this year under President Prabowo Subianto, with a special focus on small business vendors. Around 60 vendors were invited to the State Palace, where all their goods were purchased to serve guests, 80 percent of whom were members of the public.
One of the vendors, Wahyu, who sells traditional kue apem cakes, expressed his gratitude and happiness for being invited. Another vendor selling es doger also shared his joy of stepping into the State Palace for the first time, describing the experience as grand and festive.
As part of a special gesture, 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) were invited to provide 30,000 portions of food and drinks for free to the public. They were stationed at different points within the Palace grounds, giving visitors a unique opportunity to get up close with the State Palace.
Attendees, including @ijoeel on Instagram, shared their excitement about the event, noting the rare chance to access areas like the central courtyard that are typically off-limits. They also praised the Presidential Security Forces (Paspampres) for ensuring both safety and hospitality during the celebration.
This year’s Independence Day commemoration not only brought people together for a festive occasion but also showcased a new level of openness at the Palace under President Prabowo. It was a moment where officials, ordinary citizens, and small street vendors united in a shared space of unity and celebration.
