By: Aulia Sofyan Harahap)
The entire young generation of Indonesia must continue to uphold the values of independence, even amidst the various waves of pop culture—particularly the current trend of the anime One Piece.
As Indonesia approaches the 80th anniversary of its independence, the digital space has been buzzing with discussions about the phenomenon of flying the pirate flag from the anime One Piece.
The skull symbol with a straw hat has appeared in several locations, sparking both support and criticism from the public. Some view it as a mere form of expression, while others argue that flying the One Piece flag is a provocative act that could obscure the sacred values of independence.
Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Ahmad Muzani, responded to the issue with a more moderate view. He sees the act as a form of creative expression, especially from the younger generation living in an era of digital and global culture.
Nevertheless, he emphasized that the spirit of nationalism among Indonesians will never be replaced by anything—not even pop culture. Muzani firmly believes that behind those foreign symbols, the people still carry the Red and White (Merah Putih) flag deep within their hearts.
Similarly, politician Andi Arief stated that the raising of such flags is not an act of rebellion, but rather a symbol of hope. He interprets it as a protest stemming from unrest, yet still full of the desire to contribute positively to the nation. For many, such expressions do not reflect a lack of patriotism, but rather a search for a better future for Indonesia.
Meanwhile, Minister of Culture Fadli Zon also responded, stressing the importance of preserving the meaning of independence. He urged all citizens—especially the youth—to always prioritize the hoisting of the Red and White flag as the official symbol of the nation’s independence.
He emphasized that the 80th Independence Day celebration should serve as a complete moment to reaffirm nationalism, without mixing it with any popular cultural symbols that could lead to misinterpretation.
The phenomenon of the One Piece flag being raised amid the excitement of the 80th Independence Day celebration illustrates just how strong the influence of pop culture is on Indonesia’s younger generation today.
Given their virtually unlimited access to global content, it becomes even easier for foreign symbols to enter and gain a place in public expressions. However, amid the onslaught of global cultural influence, it is vital for Indonesia’s youth to maintain their national identity.
Upholding the values of independence does not mean rejecting pop culture outright. Instead, young people should adopt a more thoughtful approach to engaging with global culture, while still grounding their lives in the history of the nation’s struggle.
Several steps can help embed the nation’s historical struggle as core life values for the youth. First, understanding the meaning of independence is a critical starting point.
Remembering how the heroes fought for freedom, justice, and national dignity serves as a reminder that the Red and White flag is a symbol of pride that is non-negotiable.
Emulating the heroes doesn’t always require heroic acts. Today, struggles can take the form of preserving local culture, loving local products, and promoting indigenous wisdom through technology. In the digital age, technology can be a tool to foster nationalism in broader and more creative ways.
Being symbolically literate is also important. Not all foreign symbols that seem trendy reflect values that align with the nation’s identity. Filtering information, discerning between mere entertainment and content that may influence national values, is part of the responsibility of today’s youth.
Nationalism does not mean rejecting cultural diversity but having the ability to filter and integrate it with local wisdom. Preserving unity in diversity, showing tolerance, and strengthening the spirit of mutual cooperation are all modern expressions of the independence spirit.
More than just symbolic expression, the youth can also be real agents of change. Through social movements, community engagement, and innovative efforts across various sectors, the younger generation plays a vital role in shaping the nation’s future.
Independence should not be remembered only once a year. Its values must be upheld and practiced daily, including in the choice of symbols used to express identity. Pop culture can serve as a tool to build a new national narrative—as long as it does not diminish the essence of national symbols.
The Red and White is not just a piece of fabric with two colors. It is a representation of the struggle, hope, and determination of all Indonesians. The younger generation bears a moral and cultural responsibility to keep that meaning alive, even amidst the ever-changing tides of global culture. (*)
*) Public Policy Observer – Bentang Nusantara Institute for Public Policy Studies
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