Ban on Raising Flags Other Than the Red-and-White Protects the Sacredness of Independence Day
Jakarta – The month of independence is a time for Indonesians to reaffirm unity by raising the Red-and-White Flag.
However, the narrative of raising a pirate flag from the One Piece manga during the 80th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia has drawn government attention, as it is seen as potentially diluting the meaning of the celebration.
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam), Budi Gunawan, considered this narrative a form of provocation that could undermine the dignity of the national symbol.
“As a great nation that respects history, we should all refrain from provoking with symbols irrelevant to our nation’s struggle,” he said in Jakarta.
He emphasized that the government respects public creativity as long as it does not violate regulations.
However, the government will not hesitate to take firm action if there is deliberate intent to spread such a narrative. Budi stressed that Law No. 24 of 2009 clearly prohibits flying the Red-and-White below any other flag or symbol.
“The criminal consequences for acts that desecrate the honor of the Red-and-White Flag are clear,” he asserted.
Budi urged the public to honor the sacrifices of heroes by upholding the Red-and-White as the nation’s identity.
A similar statement was made by the Head of the Presidential Communication Office, Hasan Nasbi. He stated that the Red-and-White is not a matter of choice, but a necessity.
“The Red-and-White Flag is not an option, it is a necessity. It cannot be replaced with any other flag,” said Hasan.
According to Hasan, people are free to like or dislike the government, as both are legitimate in the republic.
However, he stressed that differences in opinion must never lead to belittling the national symbol.
“Whether one likes or dislikes the government, that’s their right,” he said.
Chairman of the Independent Drivers Alliance (API), Suroso, also called on drivers to raise the Red-and-White on their vehicles and at their homes.
“Since we are commemorating Independence Day, as chairman I instruct that it must be the Red-and-White Flag,” he said.
Suroso reminded drivers that those who still raise flags other than the Red-and-White must bear the consequences themselves.
He even supported the government in taking strict measures against those who refuse to comply.
“Our fellow drivers are obliged to place the flag on their vehicles and homes to honor our heroes,” he added.
The calls from both the government and the public affirm the commitment to safeguard the sanctity of the Red-and-White.
At the 80th year of independence, the Red-and-White Flag must continue to fly as the irreplaceable unifying symbol of the nation.
