Stop the Pirate Flag Trend, Community Leaders Urge Respect for the Red and White Flag Ahead of Indonesia’s 80th Anniversary

Jakarta – Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s independence, the public is urged not to participate in flying pirate flags depicting skulls in the style of the anime character One Piece.

This action is considered not only misleading, but can also trigger provocation that disturbs the spirit of nationalism.

Firman Soebagyo, Deputy Chairman of the Golkar faction in the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), strongly criticized the frequent display of One Piece flags leading up to Independence Day. He called it a provocative act that warrants vigilance.

“These are provocative methods that want to bring down the government, they are not allowed,” said Firman.

He also urged the public not to be influenced by such trends. He stated that such actions must be dealt with immediately and firmly.

“I ask the public not to be influenced,” he said. Firman also encouraged the parties involved in the action to be called and trained.

“At least those who do it, do it, interrogate who ordered it and then what their motivation is, and then provide guidance to them,” he added.

Yakob Fiobetauw, Chairman of the Barisan Merah Putih (BMP) branch of Jayapura Regency, echoed this sentiment. He urged the public not to confuse national symbols with popular cultural icons unrelated to the independence struggle.

“The momentum of the Republic of Indonesia’s Independence Day should be used as an opportunity to foster a spirit of nationalism, not to mix state symbols with popular entertainment,” he stressed.

Yakob believes that calls to fly the pirate flag alongside or in place of the Red and White are inappropriate and could undermine national sovereignty. He also urged Papuans, particularly in Jayapura Regency, not to be easily provoked.

“As good citizens, let us commemorate and celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s independence. We must also uphold the values of the heroes’ struggle,” he concluded.