Jakarta – Ahead of the 80th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s Independence, the spirit of nationalism and pride in national symbols has once again come into the spotlight. However, amid the public’s enthusiasm in celebrating this historic day, a concerning trend has emerged—the increasing use of pirate-themed flags and attributes (such as One Piece) in public spaces, including in Independence Day decorations.
National symbols such as the Red and White flag, the Garuda Pancasila emblem, and the national anthem Indonesia Raya represent the nation’s identity, sovereignty, and long struggle for independence. Replacing or equating these national symbols with global entertainment attributes, without a deep understanding of their meaning, risks eroding the values and noble ideals they embody.
Deputy Chairman of the Golkar Party, Idrus Marham, reminded all levels of society to uphold the sanctity of the 80th Independence Day celebrations.
“This is not about hating foreign cultures. It’s about putting symbols in their proper place. Do not mix entertainment symbols with state symbols, especially in a sacred context like the commemoration of independence,” Idrus said.
He stressed that the creativity of the younger generation is an important force in nation-building. However, in his view, expressions of pop culture should not encroach on state spaces that are symbolic and sacred.
“If it’s used in cosplay events or community gatherings, that’s fine. But if it replaces the position of the Red and White flag in August, it’s no longer just about expression—it’s already blurring our national identity,” he stated.
The use of pirate symbols in entertainment may be interpreted by some as an expression of freedom, resistance against injustice, or courage. However, within the framework of the state, such symbols hold no ideological relevance to Indonesia’s struggle for independence.
Echoing Idrus’s sentiment, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi also expressed concern, urging young people not to be trapped by fleeting trends that stray from the spirit of nationalism.
“The problem arises when, for example, certain parties—so to speak—take advantage of such creativity for purposes that, in our view, should not happen,” Prasetyo said.
There is a need for stronger, more adaptive, and relevant national education and literacy that aligns with the times. Character education based on Pancasila, the history of the national struggle, and an understanding of national symbols must continue to be strengthened. At the same time, creative and dialogical communication approaches should be adopted by stakeholders, ensuring that messages of nationalism are well-received without appearing patronizing or restrictive of freedom of expression.
