Merdeka Palace experienced a touching moment during the Commemoration of the Seconds of Proclamation. President Prabowo Subianto showed deep respect by kissing the national flag, the Red-and-White (Merah Putih), before handing it to the Heritage Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka). This symbolic act introduced a fresh nuance to Indonesia’s state ceremony traditions. The flag was then passed to Farrel Argantha Irawan, a student from Highscope Indonesia TB Simatupang Senior High School, who led the procession, symbolizing the spirit of metropolitan youth in protecting the nation’s dignity.
Notable figures like President Joko Widodo and former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono also witnessed the flag-raising ceremony alongside other guests. As the Red-and-White flag ascended, attendees stood tall, saluting the national anthem, Indonesia Raya. The ceremony concluded with the release of white doves into the sky, symbolizing peace and unity for the nation. This meaningful event marked Indonesia’s Independence Day with solemnity and hope for the future.
