Indonesia marks 81st Independence Day with patriotic celebrations, solemn remembrance

Indonesia celebrated its 81st Independence Day on Monday with a mix of patriotic festivities and solemn remembrances. President Prabowo Subianto led the national ceremony at Merdeka Palace, reciting the country's 1945 Proclamation of Independence. He called upon Indonesians to honor and remember the national heroes who sacrificed their lives for independence and the nation's dignity.

The ceremony took on a more somber tone when Prabowo led a moment of silence and prayers for communities impacted by natural disasters across Sumatra, East Nusa Tenggara, and other regions, including victims of a recent earthquake in Flores.

The day's events, themed "Sovereign, Just and Prosperous Indonesia," included a procession showcasing the national flag and original proclamation text, accompanied by military personnel, bands, and security forces. Thousands of citizens, dressed in red and white or traditional garb, joined dignitaries and foreign ambassadors for the nearly four-hour event, which featured cultural performances and an aerial display involving approximately 81 aircraft and helicopters.

Several ministers and deputy ministers participated in Independence Day celebrations outside Jakarta, including officials handling the government's response to the Flores earthquake. Earlier in the day, Prabowo led a national pilgrimage and reflection at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta, honoring those who perished during the fight for independence.