The Red and White Flag Is Non-Negotiable: Rejecting the Trend of Pirate Flags on Independence Day
Ahead of the 80th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s Independence Day, the rising trend of hoisting fictional flags such as the Jolly Roger from the anime series One Piece has drawn public attention. What should be a sacred moment to strengthen national pride is instead being marred by actions seen as disrespectful toward national symbols.
National figures have spoken out, urging the public to reaffirm their patriotic spirit by honoring the Indonesian national flag—the Red and White (Merah Putih).
Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Budi Gunawan reminded the public not to provoke or participate in actions involving symbols that are unrelated to the nation’s struggle.
“As a nation that upholds historical values, we must avoid actions that provoke by using symbols that have no connection to our national struggle,” he asserted.
This phenomenon has sparked concern as it occurs during a highly sensitive time—just before Independence Day. The hoisting of the Jolly Roger, a flag synonymous with piracy, is deemed inappropriate when placed alongside the Merah Putih, the official symbol of national sovereignty.
Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai firmly stated that raising fictional flags alongside the Merah Putih is not a form of free expression, but a potential violation of the law.
“This is a concrete form of respect for state symbols. It cannot be equated with fictional flags like the one from One Piece, especially during such a critical moment as the 80th anniversary of Independence Day,” said Pigai.
He also emphasized that banning fictional flags aligns with principles of international law.
“This regulation empowers the state to take measures to maintain stability and protect national sovereignty,” he added, referring to Law No. 12 of 2005, which ratifies the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Echoing these sentiments, Yogi Syahputra Alidrus, National Coordinator of the Student Executive Board (BEM) of Muhammadiyah Aisyiyah Higher Education Institutions (PTMAI), called on all citizens to hoist the Merah Putih as a tangible expression of patriotism.
“We urge all members of society to revive the spirit of nationalism through a simple but meaningful act—by raising the Merah Putih at homes, campuses, and in surrounding communities,” he said.
Yogi also voiced strong opposition to the trend of hoisting pirate flags on Independence Day.
“We firmly reject the display of One Piece flags or any other symbols that do not reflect the identity or nationalistic spirit of the Indonesian people. Such acts diminish the meaning of independence and risk dividing national unity,” he stated.
