Pop Culture Trend of Using the Pirate Flag Should Be Accompanied by the Spirit of Nationalism
By: Fauzan Hidayat
The trend of popular culture in Indonesia is showing rapid growth, especially among the younger generation. One recent phenomenon is the desire of some people to fly the pirate flag from the Japanese animated series One Piece, known as the Jolly Roger, ahead of the commemoration of Indonesia’s Independence Day. This phenomenon has sparked widespread discussion and drawn various reactions on social media.
The government has responded not reactively, but with a wise and inclusive approach. The Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, emphasized that expressions of popular culture are part of a healthy social dynamic. He believes that expressing oneself through popular symbols like the Jolly Roger does not automatically indicate rejection of national symbols.
However, Prasetyo also reminded that in the context of the state, flying the Red-and-White flag must remain the primary expression in every independence celebration. National symbols must not be replaced or placed on equal standing with foreign cultural icons. He encouraged the public to continue prioritizing the spirit of nationalism in all forms of celebration.
A similar sentiment was expressed by Deputy Chair of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono. He stated that the growing pop culture trend is inevitable, especially in the digital era that provides wide access to various global content. However, he hopes that the younger generation will maintain a strong sense of history and national identity.
According to Edhie, it is important for the public to distinguish between consuming pop culture as entertainment and their attitude toward national symbols. He believes that pop culture can serve as a bridge to strengthen nationalism, not weaken it. The use of foreign symbols for entertainment is acceptable, but should not cross the line when it comes to national moments such as Indonesia’s Independence Day.
From a defense perspective, the Minister of Defense, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, reminded that a nation’s strength is not only determined by its military, but also by its cultural resilience. He believes that overly dominant foreign cultural influence could weaken national pride if not accompanied by reinforcement of Pancasila ideology and the spirit of nationalism.
Sjafrie also stressed the importance of proper education in addressing pop culture trends. He encouraged educational institutions, media, and creative communities to work together to strengthen public understanding of the importance of preserving national identity. According to him, pop culture can be used to shape a positive narrative that fosters pride in Indonesia.
Amid the strong currents of globalization, creative expression is indeed part of the individual freedom guaranteed in a democracy. However, such expression must remain conscious of social and national contexts. In this regard, the government does not impose restrictions, but rather guides so that every form of creativity has a constructive impact on national spirit.
The Jolly Roger phenomenon serves as a reminder that Indonesians, especially the younger generation, are in a process of seeking a more fluid and open identity. In this situation, the state should act not as an obstacle, but as a guide capable of bridging the gap between expressive freedom and the noble values of nationalism.
The period leading up to Independence Day can be used to reaffirm the importance of respecting national symbols. The Red-and-White is not just a flag, but a symbol of struggle, unity, and sovereignty fought for by the nation’s founders. Therefore, it must always hold the highest place in state contexts.
The public should be encouraged to celebrate creativity without losing direction. The government’s inclusive stance demonstrates that the nation is open to the changing times, yet remains firm in upholding the dignity of national identity. A collaborative, rather than repressive, approach is key to maintaining a balance between freedom of expression and adherence to national norms.
It is also important to understand that love for pop culture should not diminish pride in one’s own culture. In fact, by internalizing the values of nationalism within the global cultural space, Indonesia can present itself as a nation of character in an increasingly connected world.
Strengthening nationalism does not always have to follow conventional methods. The use of pop culture symbols can serve as an educational tool, as long as it is framed within a relevant national narrative. In this context, the role of the government, society, and public figures is vital in shaping collective awareness.
As a great nation, Indonesia possesses a rich culture that can stand alongside any in the world. Therefore, pop culture trends from abroad should be a trigger to love and develop one’s own culture even more, not the opposite.
By blending creativity with the spirit of nationalism, Indonesians can demonstrate that modernity and love for the homeland can go hand in hand. Moments such as Independence Day are the perfect opportunity to affirm that the Red-and-White flag remains the sole symbol of national pride for the Indonesian people.
Public Policy Observer
