Jakarta — A solemn moment unfolded at the Merdeka Palace during the Commemoration of the Seconds of Proclamation on Sunday (Aug. 17). Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto kissed the national flag, the Red-and-White (Merah Putih), before handing it over to the Heritage Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka). The gesture, performed with deep reverence, preceded the hoisting of the national emblem into the skies above the capital.
The symbolic act of respect quickly drew attention, introducing a fresh nuance into the country’s state ceremony traditions.
After receiving the flag from the President, Paskibraka passed it to the designated hoister. This year, the honor was entrusted to Farrel Argantha Irawan, a student of Highscope Indonesia TB Simatupang Senior High School from Jakarta. His role in leading the procession symbolized the spirit of metropolitan youth safeguarding the dignity of the nation.
The ceremony was also attended by Indonesia’s 7th President Joko Widodo and 6th President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who were seated near Prabowo, witnessing the flag-raising ceremony alongside other distinguished guests.
As the Red-and-White slowly ascended to the top of the flagpole, the entire assembly stood tall. The national anthem, Indonesia Raya, resounded across the grounds, met with respectful salutes from thousands of attendees.
Upon completion of the procession, hundreds of white doves were released into the palace courtyard, accompanied by cheers from the guests. The flock soared across Jakarta’s skies, adding to the solemnity of the Independence Day commemoration while symbolizing hopes for peace and national unity.
