By: Aditio Putra Reynaldi )*
As Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day approaches, people across the country are excited by the trend of flying pirate flags from the anime One Piece . This phenomenon quickly went viral on social media and sparked heated public discussion. Debate has arisen over the boundary between freedom of expression and respect for national symbols. The government has urged all citizens to maintain the Indonesian flag in a respectful position to maintain the spirit of nationalism during this historic moment.
Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam), Budi Gunawan, stated that flying flags other than the Red and White flag could potentially degrade the dignity of national symbols. He warned that the use of other symbols irrelevant to the national context could be viewed as an undesirable form of provocation. Referring to Law Number 24 of 2009, Article 24 paragraph (1), flying the flags of other countries or foreign symbols below the Red and White flag is a violation of the law.
As a nation that values history, the public must refrain from demeaning national symbols. Respect for the flag is a form of appreciation for the sacrifices of the heroes who fought for independence. He hopes that the momentum of Indonesian Independence Day can be a means of strengthening patriotism and pride in national identity.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Human Rights (Wamenham), Mugiyanto, stated that the public is allowed to fly the Jolly Roger flag from the anime One Piece , as long as it does not replace the position of the Red and White Flag as a national symbol. He emphasized that freedom of expression is part of the human rights guaranteed by law, especially for the younger generation who are known to be creative and critical. According to him, the government is committed to creating a healthy space for expression, while still maintaining the dignity and honor of the national symbol.
Mugiyanto also expressed his appreciation for President Prabowo Subianto’s explicit directive permitting the use of the flag in entertainment or cultural expression contexts, as long as it does not violate applicable regulations. He believes this policy reflects a balance between protecting state symbols and respecting citizens’ freedoms.
Similarly, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that raising the One Piece flag can be done as a form of creative expression for the community, as long as it does not displace the position of the Red and White Flag as the highest symbol of state. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia, ensuring its dignity and not being influenced by the use of symbols that do not comply with regulations. According to him, creativity born from various communities deserves to be appreciated, as it reflects the dynamic spirit of the nation, as long as it is in line with national values.
Prasetyo also emphasized that the public should avoid actions that could give the impression of demeaning or replacing the Red and White Flag. He urged all elements of the nation, especially the younger generation, to interpret this expression as a positive expression of love for the homeland, not as a rejection of the state. This stance demonstrates the government’s efforts to maintain a balance between respect for national symbols and providing a healthy space for expression for the Indonesian people.
The government understands that this trend stems from a creative spirit, particularly among the younger generation, who are familiar with popular culture. However, such expressions must remain within the bounds of national values that respect the nation’s history and struggle. The government will continue to monitor this phenomenon to ensure that independence celebrations are positive and aligned with national goals.
The Red and White flag is a symbol of national sovereignty and national identity, uniting all citizens regardless of ethnicity, religion, or culture. Upholding the honor of the flag is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility of every citizen. This symbol is the bond of unity that forms the foundation of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
Replacing or pairing the Red and White Flag with other symbols, even if only as a temporary trend, risks obscuring the meaning of nationalism. This could diminish the younger generation’s respect for the values of the struggle for independence. Therefore, the public needs to be wise in choosing forms of expression, especially during important moments like Indonesian Independence Day, which hold significant historical significance.
The government’s policy of prioritizing the flying of the Red and White flag at important events such as the Indonesian Independence Day is a strategic step in strengthening nationalist values. This measure also prevents potential social friction arising from differing views on the symbols used in celebrations. Compliance with the rules on the use of the national flag reflects a mature democracy and a commitment to unity.
Respecting the Red and White Flag means upholding the nation’s dignity and identity, passed down through generations. Therefore, Independence Day should be a time to strengthen unity, affirm nationalism, and foster mutual cooperation for Indonesia’s progress.
As we approach the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia, let us together maintain the spirit of nationalism by placing the Red and White Flag in a place of honor. Creativity may flourish, but the values of national unity and honor must remain a priority. By respecting each other and prioritizing national symbols, we not only celebrate independence but also pass on this pride to future generations.
)*The author is an observer of social issues
