JAKARTA — It is crucial for all Indonesian youth to continuously foster a deep sense of pride in the Red and White (Merah Putih) flag, especially in the face of today’s powerful wave of visual globalization. Ahead of the 80th anniversary of Indonesian Independence, the phenomenon of pirate flags from the anime series One Piece being hoisted in several regions has sparked debate. This global visual trend has raised both support and concern, particularly over how national symbols are positioned within the youth’s space of expression.
In response, Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan viewed the trend as a form of public aspiration that deserves to be heard—not suppressed.
“What they’re doing is not an act of rebellion. They simply want to be heard. Just like in One Piece, many characters rebel not out of hatred, but out of disappointment and a desire for change,” he said in Jakarta.
According to Immanuel, the Merah Putih is a sacred national symbol that must never be replaced by any other, including symbols from popular entertainment such as One Piece. He emphasized the importance of the state’s role in understanding the current social context of youth.
“If young people feel that national values are missing from their daily lives, then we need to reflect on how we are showing up for them. Their energy shouldn’t be shut down—it should be redirected toward something positive,” he added.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi shared a similar view. As long as the One Piece flag is raised as a form of community expression and not positioned in opposition to the national flag, it remains within acceptable boundaries.
“If it’s just an expression, that’s okay. But don’t pit it against the Merah Putih. We are all children of this nation, and Merah Putih is the only flag,” Prasetyo affirmed.
He clarified that there would be no crackdown on pop culture symbols. However, the government would respond firmly to provocative acts that deviate from national values, while also calling on the public to treat August as a sacred month.
West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi emphasized that public expression remains valid as long as the Red and White flag is hoisted in the highest position.
“What matters most is that everyone shows their love for Indonesia by placing the Merah Putih at the top,” he said.
In the midst of visual globalization, strengthening nationalism through the Red and White flag must remain a non-negotiable foundation. The moment of independence is a call to reinforce national identity. (*)
