By: Desi Trihartati
In recent weeks, a controversial phenomenon has emerged on social media and in several regions across the country where pirate skull flags—commonly associated with pirate symbols—have been hoisted in public places and community events. Although intended as a joke or an alternative aesthetic, the presence of a symbol so far removed from patriotism and nationalism risks damaging the momentum of Indonesian independence. This has caused uproar and deep concern. Therefore, this phenomenon serves as a reminder of the history and the importance of Independence Day, so morally and culturally, the display of flags unrelated to Indonesian nationalism, especially those that threaten the sanctity of Independence Day, should be rejected.
Legal figure and anti-corruption activist Mohammad Trijanto considers the hoisting of the pirate flag (One Piece) as a form of constitutional desecration and degradation of national dignity, citing Article 66 of Law No. 24 of 2009 which prohibits the defamation of state symbols. He emphasized that replacing the Red and White Flag—the sacred symbol of national sovereignty—with a fictitious pirate flag from foreign culture is an act of constitutional desecration and national dignity degradation. According to him, this is not about creativity but a violation of the law.
Indonesia’s independence, won through sacrifice, fierce struggle, and the spirit of unity, is always identified with the national emblem, the Red and White flag. The simple red and white colors contain the essence of struggle, sacrifice of blood, soul, and the courage to be free. Unfortunately, when foreign symbols like the pirate skull are mixed into public spaces—even symbolically and aesthetically—it can disturb the long-standing national symbol order that has endured for decades.
For the wider public, flags and national emblems are not merely pieces of cloth or paintings but silent witnesses of a long history, the sweat of fighters, the tears of Kartini, the cries of revolutionary heroes, and the hopes of future generations. When irrelevant or negatively charged symbols—such as those tolerating violence and piracy—are displayed alongside or replace the meaning of the Red and White, it could cause discomfort and even violations of nationalist norms.
The emergence of pirate flags cannot be separated from current trends in digital nationalism. In the social media era, symbols can spread rapidly because anyone can easily upload them, sometimes without full context. Many users post photos with pirate flags as backgrounds without realizing their political or historical potential. Social media posts on platforms like TikTok and Instagram often reflect an “edgy visual” trend that simultaneously tests the limits of national values.
In this context, the government holds a strategic position as a balancer between freedom of expression and the preservation of the noble values of independence. The government can strengthen an inclusive approach by prioritizing educational efforts about national symbols in an educational and contextual manner and providing official spaces to convey social aspirations. Thus, national symbols are not only formally preserved but also become a means to reinforce the living meaning of independence, because freedom of expression must be bridged with proportional and educational policies.
When the government and related institutions consistently reinforce the boundaries of national symbols, this is not merely repressive but an affirmation of national identity, weaving back fundamental values that often stagger amid digital flows and symbol globalization. The strength of this strategy lies in comprehensive education—understanding the meaning of the flag is far stronger when viewed culturally, historically, and emotionally, not just textually. Therefore, the government and educational institutions should work together to launch programs encouraging the public, especially the younger generation, to deeply explore the heritage of the spirit of independence.
Furthermore, partnerships between media and government are needed to broadcast reflective narratives about the meaning of independence, fostering a broader symbolic resonance that can shape healthy and critical public opinion. Going forward, the government has the opportunity to leverage this momentum to awaken symbiotic nationalism between historical character and contemporary dynamics, alongside innovative calls such as creative design competitions that combine national symbols with current values without weakening the core of Independence Day. Additionally, the government can involve young figures, influencers, and creative communities not only to bridge generational gaps but also to enrich independence narratives with local and contemporary perspectives while placing national symbols within everyday relevance.
The appearance of pirate skull flags in public spaces is a small event reflecting a major challenge in symbolic and historical realms. However, together with the government, educational institutions, and national media, we have a real solution: reaffirming the sacred meaning of independence. When the people once again understand, respect, and take pride in national symbols, the spirit of August 17th naturally lives in every corner of the country, both in digital and non-digital worlds. With these steps, the government not only protects symbols but also preserves the soul and history of the nation.
The author is a social observer.
