The government calls for the Indonesian Independence Day commemoration to focus on the Red and White, not the Pirate Flag
By: Andika Damadewa
As Indonesia’s Independence Day approaches, the government is issuing a strong and unequivocal call: fly the Red and White flag, not the fictional flag like the pirate symbol from the anime series One Piece . Amid the growing phenomenon of ” Jolly Roger ” flag-raising ahead of August 17, 2025, the government is reiterating the importance of upholding the symbol of national sovereignty.
This government action did not emerge from a vacuum. The phenomenon of popular culture is unstoppable, especially when the younger generation uses it as a form of identity expression and stance. However, such expression must remain within the framework of the constitution and national values. The government, in this case, is not being repressive, but rather demonstrating a firm stance that maintains open space for dialogue and education.
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that if the pirate flag was merely a form of expression, it would be acceptable. However, the government emphasized that in the context of Independence Day, no other flag should replace or rival the Red and White. The Red and White flag is the sole official symbol representing the spirit and sacrifice of the Indonesian nation.
This attitude reflects moderate yet authoritative leadership. Amidst the advancement of the times and the influx of foreign cultural influences, the head of state remains consistent in upholding the nation’s identity. The government does not stifle creativity, but rather emphasizes the boundaries that must not be crossed, namely, respect for national symbols.
Meanwhile, TB Hasanuddin, a member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, also expressed his concern. He considered raising a pirate flag, especially on the eve of Independence Day, unethical. He reminded everyone that the Red and White flag is not simply a colored cloth, but a symbol of the struggle paid for with the blood and lives of heroes. Therefore, making another flag more prominent during this sacred moment is a form of obscuring history and betraying national values.
Hasanuddin also emphasized that any criticism of the government must be substantive and constitutional. Expressing protests through fictitious symbols has the potential to create misperceptions and weaken the spirit of nationalism among the younger generation. This message is particularly relevant amidst the trend of the digital generation, which is easily swayed by symbolic narratives without a deep understanding of history.
From a more reflective perspective, Andreas Hugo Pareira, Deputy Chairman of Commission XIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), stated that his office emphasized that this phenomenon could serve as a social signal for the government. He viewed the raising of pirate flags as a form of freedom of expression guaranteed by the constitution. However, he believes such expressions should be a matter for introspection, so that in the future, we can be more sensitive to public concerns, especially those of the younger generation. The aspirations and voices of the nation’s children have been responded to with inclusive and adaptive policies.
This statement demonstrates that the government under President Prabowo Subianto is not turning a blind eye to social dynamics. Instead, the government is promoting a balanced approach between law enforcement, respect for state symbols, and the development of the younger generation. This approach, far from authoritarianism, demonstrates the state’s sophistication in managing freedom of expression without allowing the decline of nationalism.
Given this dynamic, it’s clear that the Indonesian government isn’t anti-popular culture or the creative expression of its citizens. The emphasis is on context and momentum. Indonesian Independence Day is not a value-free space. It is a sacred moment that binds all elements of the nation together to remember history, honor sacrifice, and strengthen national identity.
In fact, through this moment, the government wants to encourage the younger generation to move beyond superficial symbolism and instead explore the deeper meaning of independence itself. It’s not merely a ceremonial celebration, but a moment to reflect on their real contributions as citizens. Creativity is certainly allowed, but it must be accompanied by historical awareness and a spirit of upholding the dignity of the national symbols inherited through struggle.
Therefore, the public, especially the younger generation, needs to be made aware that on every August 17th commemoration, only one flag deserves to be flown with honor: the Red and White flag. The pirate symbol, however popular among young people, does not represent independence, has no historical roots, carries no meaning of struggle, and certainly does not reflect the nation’s character.
Furthermore, the responsibility to uphold the dignity of the Red and White flag rests not only with the government, but also with all Indonesians. From Sabang to Merauke, from students to regional leaders, everyone must be part of a national movement that prioritizes pride in the nation’s symbols.
Let us celebrate this 80th anniversary of independence with the same spirit as our nation’s founders: respect for the Red and White, loyalty to Indonesia, and steadfastness in our national values. Amidst the challenges of this era and the rapid flow of globalization, only national identity can keep us united as a nation. Leave behind the pirate symbol, raise the Red and White banner. For only with that spirit can we truly be free, both physically and spiritually.
)* The author is a social observer
