JAKARTA – Let us all celebrate the 80th Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia by proudly raising the Red and White national flag, not merely using entertainment symbols like the One Piece flag.
As the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence approaches, the public has been actively discussing the phenomenon of people raising the pirate flag from the One Piece anime series.
While some see this act as a form of creative expression, several national figures have emphasized the importance of prioritizing the use of the national symbol — the Red and White Flag.
It is crucial to uphold this national symbol, especially during the sacred moment of the 80th Independence Day celebration.
Deputy Minister of Manpower, Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan, views the One Piece flag phenomenon as a form of social aspiration that cannot be ignored.
“What they’re doing is not rebellion. They just want to be heard,” he said.
“Just like in One Piece, many characters rebel not out of hatred, but because they are disappointed and want change,” Noel added in a written statement.
He underlined that the Red and White flag is a sacred symbol that must not be replaced by anything.
Nevertheless, he stressed that the state must also be present to truly listen and embrace the people, not just reprimand them.
“If young people feel those values are absent in real life, then it means we must evaluate how we show up for them,” he asserted.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Ahmad Muzani, responded to the One Piece flag issue with a softer approach.
“I think it’s an expression of creativity and innovation, and I believe their hearts are with the Red and White — their spirit is Red and White,” Muzani said in Jakarta on Sunday (Aug 3).
He remains confident that the younger generation still holds strong nationalistic values despite the global cultural wave.
Similarly, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon urged the public to avoid entertainment symbols that could be misinterpreted.
“We need to stay focused on the commemoration of independence. Let’s avoid any possible misunderstandings,” Fadli said in Depok.
The commemoration of independence should be a moment to reaffirm national identity.
The Red and White flag is not merely a piece of cloth — it symbolizes bravery, purity, and the long history of the nation’s struggle.
Raising it means nurturing the spirit of unity, not replacing it with fictional symbols. (*)
