Jakarta — As Indonesia approaches its 80th anniversary, the controversy surrounding the raising of a One Piece-themed pirate flag is challenging the sanctity of the nation’s symbols. Several national figures have spoken out, calling for the action to be rejected as an affront to the Red and White flag and national values.
Legal figure and anti-corruption activist, Mohammad Trijanto, called the raising of the One Piece flag a form of constitutional abuse that could be subject to criminal sanctions.
“Replacing the Red and White flag—a sacred symbol of national sovereignty—with a fictional pirate flag from a foreign culture is an act of constitutional abuse and a degradation of national dignity. This is not a matter of creativity; it’s a violation of the law,” he stressed.
Trijanto referred to Article 66 of Law Number 24 of 2009, which prohibits insulting the national flag. He emphasized that flying a fictitious symbol in place of the Red and White cannot be justified in the name of freedom of expression.
“The national symbol is not just a piece of cloth, but our legal identity and honor as a nation,” he said.
Mohammad Trijanto also initiated the formation of a National Symbols Monitoring Network in various regions. He encouraged civil society to participate in safeguarding the honor of the Red and White.
“If this nation is unable to maintain the honor of the Red and White, don’t expect to be respected by other nations,” he concluded.
Similarly, Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai emphasized that the ban on flying flags other than the Red and White is a step to maintain national integrity.
“This ban is an effort to protect national symbols as a form of respect for the country,” said Pigai.
He added that such actions could be categorized as symbolic treason if they were flown alongside or in place of the Red and White flag.
Pigai also referred to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which is recognized by the UN, as a legitimate basis for states to restrict expressions that endanger national stability.
“The government’s stance is for the sake of the core of national interest,” he added.
Meanwhile, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon asked the public to be wiser in welcoming the independence celebrations.
“We must focus on commemorating Indonesia’s independence. There should be no misinterpretation. We should prioritize the red and white symbols everywhere,” Fadli urged.
Fadli emphasized the importance of maintaining a solemn atmosphere amidst the spirit of nationalism.
“We want Indonesia’s 80th anniversary of independence to be celebrated massively. We must not allow any disruption, especially with symbols that not everyone understands,” he said.
