Jakarta – As Indonesia commemorates the 80th Anniversary of Independence, the government once again reminded the public of the importance of preserving the sanctity of Independence Day. The spirit of the Independence Month must serve as a momentum to strengthen national identity by upholding the Red and White (Merah Putih) as the sole national symbol.
Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, emphasized that the Red and White holds an irreplaceable position.
“The Red and White flag has an irreplaceable status as a symbol of unity. During such a sacred moment as Independence Day, every citizen is obliged to honor the national flag with solemn respect. Raising other symbols alongside the Red and White undermines the spiritual and national values embedded in the celebration of independence,” he stated.
The government will intensify public outreach on the use of the national flag through education, counseling, and public campaigns to reaffirm the Red and White as a symbol of sovereignty that must never be equated with non-national icons.
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, highlighted the importance of instilling a deeper understanding of national symbols among the younger generation.
“Young people must gain a deeper understanding of the meaning of national symbols. Popular culture is indeed part of daily life, but its use must be placed proportionally. Independence Day is a special occasion to instill patriotism, and only the Red and White deserves to be flown,” he said.
Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, shared the same perspective, stressing that safeguarding the sanctity of national symbols is a shared responsibility.
“Preserving the purity of national symbols is a collective responsibility. The pirate flag is nothing more than a global entertainment icon with no historical meaning in Indonesia’s struggle for independence. Therefore, I call on the public not to confuse the realm of entertainment with the deeply meaningful realm of statehood,” he remarked.
The Independence Day commemoration is a reflection of the sacrifices and unity of national heroes. By raising the Red and White, the nation reaffirms its commitment to unity and respect for the history of struggle, while demonstrating resilience amid the strong currents of global culture.
The Red and White is not merely a piece of cloth, but a symbol of pride and dignity for the nation from Sabang to Merauke. When it flies high in the Indonesian sky, the flag revives the spirit of struggle that unites the people in diversity. By upholding the Red and White on Independence Day, Indonesia reinforces its identity as a sovereign, dignified, and resilient nation.
