JAKARTA – During the momentum of Indonesia’s Independence Month, the government reaffirms the importance of preserving the sanctity of the national symbol, the Red and White Flag (Merah Putih). This flag must not be combined with foreign symbols, including the pirate flag from the One Piece series. This stance is taken to maintain the dignity and honor of the nation’s struggle.
Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan, emphasized that the Merah Putih must always be placed in the highest position during every state occasion.
“The public should not be provoked into using symbols that are irrelevant to the national struggle. The Red and White Flag is a symbol of sovereignty that must be upheld above all other interests. Law Number 24 of 2009, Article 24 paragraph (1) clearly prohibits raising the national flag alongside any other symbol,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Bima Arya Sugiarto, acknowledged that the phenomenon of raising non-national symbols can be seen as a form of public expression. However, he reminded that freedom of expression still has its limits.
“This phenomenon is indeed part of democracy, but expression must not contradict the constitution or regulations. In every Independence Day celebration, the Red and White Flag must remain the primary symbol officially raised,” he explained.
Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), Ahmad Muzani, also emphasized that the public can still channel their creativity through popular culture, as long as it does not overshadow the position of the Merah Putih.
“Public creativity in self-expression is understandable. However, the spirit of nationalism remains rooted in love for the Red and White. The identity of the nation will not be eroded by foreign trends as long as the core values of nationhood are preserved,” he said.
These views reflect a shared determination to safeguard the honor of the national symbol. The government is committed to enforcing regulations firmly while also providing space for responsible freedom. Balancing the protection of the national symbol with respect for the creativity of the people is seen as a sign of the nation’s political maturity.
As part of public education efforts, local governments and related agencies will continue to socialize proper flag usage. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the importance of respecting the national symbol. National education is also strengthened through schools, community organizations, and public spaces.
When the Merah Putih flies high across Indonesia, the spirit of unity is reaffirmed. The flag is not merely a red and white cloth but a reflection of the sacrifices and dignity of the nation. By upholding the Merah Putih, Indonesia fortifies its identity as a dignified and resilient nation facing global dynamics.
