Jakarta — A solemn atmosphere enveloped the flag-lowering ceremony at the commemoration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day at Merdeka Palace on Sunday (Aug. 17). For Titi Nurdianti, a Jakarta resident originally from Cilacap, Central Java, the moment stirred both pride and deep emotion.
Titi admitted that her journey to be present at the historic ceremony was far from easy. She had to compete online to secure an official ticket. “It was overwhelming, very moving, because this is my first time. From the start, I had to join the ticket ‘war’ with other Indonesians, racing to click as fast as possible. Finally getting one for the flag-lowering ceremony was just pure joy, overwhelming and emotional,” she said, her eyes lighting up as she spoke at Merdeka Palace.
Until now, Titi had only ever watched the sacred ritual on television. But on August 17, 2025, she finally witnessed it with her own eyes. To mark the occasion, she chose to wear traditional attire from West Nusa Tenggara, in striking red. “It’s from NTB (West Nusa Tenggara). Honestly, I rarely get the chance to know much about NTB, so I thought I’d wear their traditional outfit today,” she explained with a smile.
One of her fondest memories from the day, she recalled, was when the flag-lowering ceremony was followed by a procession toward the National Monument. The festive parade amplified the sense of grandeur in this year’s Independence Day celebration.
Amid her tears and joy, Titi offered prayers and hopes for the nation’s future. “On this 80th anniversary, may Indonesia continue to progress, and may its people live in prosperity, justice, and peace. I’m optimistic. To our President, Mr. Prabowo, I pray for your health so you can continue to lead with sovereignty and bring welfare to the people, making Indonesia even stronger,” she said with conviction.
