JAKARTA – During the 80th Independence Month of the Republic of Indonesia, several government officials and community leaders have called on the public to uphold the dignity of the Red and White Flag (Merah Putih) and reject the phenomenon of raising pirate flags that recently went viral. This call serves as a reminder that the national symbol is a unifying bond for the nation and must not be replaced by other icons lacking historical or legal basis.
Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan, emphasized the importance of protecting the dignity of the Merah Putih in accordance with the prevailing laws and regulations.
“Law Number 24 of 2009, Article 24 paragraph (1), states that no one is allowed to raise the national flag under any other flag or emblem. This is our effort to safeguard the nation’s dignity,” he said.
According to Budi, this issue is not only about formal regulations but also concerns the spirit of nationalism. He stressed the need for consistent law enforcement to prevent any acts that demean or misuse the national symbol.
Furthermore, Budi highlighted the importance of public education, especially for the younger generation, about the meaning of the Merah Putih.
“We must wholeheartedly respect the Merah Putih, because behind the red and white colors lie the sacrifices of our heroes,” he added.
Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), Firman Soebagyo, regarded the raising of pirate flags as a serious provocation.
“This is clearly a provocation that harms the nation and state. It must not be tolerated. It can even be categorized as treason. Therefore, it must be dealt with firmly,” Firman asserted.
He added that the Merah Putih is the symbol of national sovereignty that must be raised at every state occasion, especially during Independence Day commemorations.
“This nation gained its independence through the struggle and sacrifice under the Merah Putih banner. It is only fitting that the current generation safeguards its honor,” he said.
Special Staff of the Indonesian Agency for Pancasila Ideology Education (BPIP), Romo Haryatmoko, also emphasized that freedom of expression must not offend the national symbol.
“Expressions can be diverse, but they must never harm the national identity. The Merah Putih must stand tall as the symbol of the Indonesian people’s struggle and unity,” he concluded.
This joint appeal reaffirms that protecting the honor of the Merah Putih means preserving the nation’s identity, unity, and future.
