Indonesia marks 80th anniversary of its independence with a grand ceremony and a public festival

Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, August 17th 2025 at 7:42 GMT by Associated Press
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Indonesia marked the 80th anniversary of its independence on Sunday with a grand ceremony and public festival in the country's capital, featuring parades, music, food, air displays and fireworks.

Indonesia Celebrates 80th Independence Anniversary with Grand Ceremony and Vibrant Public Festival

Jakarta, Indonesia – In a spectacular display of national pride and unity, Indonesia commemorated the 80th anniversary of its independence from Dutch colonial rule with an elaborate grand ceremony at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, followed by a lively public festival that drew thousands of participants and spectators from across the archipelago. The events, held on August 17, highlighted the nation's rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and aspirations for the future, blending solemn tributes with joyous celebrations that underscored Indonesia's journey from colonial subjugation to a thriving democracy.

The day began with the official flag-raising ceremony at the iconic Merdeka Palace, where President Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, presided over the proceedings. Dressed in traditional attire, the president led the nation in a moment of reflection, honoring the heroes of the independence struggle. The ceremony featured a precise military parade, with contingents from the Indonesian National Armed Forces marching in formation, their uniforms gleaming under the morning sun. A highlight was the aerial display by the Indonesian Air Force, where fighter jets painted trails of red and white – the colors of the national flag – across the sky, symbolizing the blood and purity of the independence fight.

In his address to the nation, President Widodo emphasized the importance of unity in diversity, a core principle of Indonesia's Pancasila ideology. He reflected on the proclamation of independence by founding fathers Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta on August 17, 1945, amid the chaos of World War II and the Japanese occupation. "Eighty years ago, our forefathers declared our freedom with courage and determination," Widodo stated. "Today, we stand as a testament to their vision – a nation of over 270 million people, spanning thousands of islands, united in our pursuit of progress and prosperity." He also touched on contemporary challenges, including economic recovery post-pandemic, environmental sustainability, and the need for technological advancement to propel Indonesia into the global arena.

The grand ceremony was attended by a distinguished array of guests, including foreign dignitaries, ambassadors from neighboring ASEAN countries, and representatives from international organizations. Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, along with cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, and religious leaders from Indonesia's diverse faiths – Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism – were present, showcasing the country's commitment to pluralism. Schoolchildren, selected from various provinces, participated by reciting poems and singing the national anthem, "Indonesia Raya," adding a youthful energy to the formal proceedings.

Following the palace ceremony, the festivities transitioned into a massive public festival held at the National Monument (Monas) square and surrounding areas in central Jakarta. The festival transformed the city into a carnival of colors, sounds, and flavors, attracting families, tourists, and locals alike. Traditional dances from regions like Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Papua were performed on multiple stages, each representing the unique cultural tapestry of Indonesia's 17,000 islands. Performers in elaborate costumes depicted historical reenactments of the independence struggle, including mock battles against colonial forces, which educated younger generations about the nation's past.

Food stalls lined the streets, offering a smorgasbord of Indonesian delicacies such as nasi goreng, satay, rendang, and tropical fruits, allowing attendees to indulge in the country's culinary diversity. Artisans from remote villages showcased handmade crafts, batik fabrics, and wood carvings, promoting local economies and preserving traditional skills. A particularly popular attraction was the cultural parade, where floats adorned with flowers and lights carried effigies of national heroes, accompanied by gamelan orchestras and modern bands fusing traditional rhythms with contemporary music.

The festival also incorporated modern elements to engage the youth, including drone light shows that illuminated the night sky with patterns forming the Indonesian flag and messages of hope. Social media influencers and celebrities participated in live streams, encouraging virtual participation from those unable to attend in person. Environmental awareness was a key theme, with booths promoting sustainable practices, such as recycling initiatives and campaigns against plastic pollution, aligning with Indonesia's efforts to combat climate change in its vulnerable island ecosystems.

Security was tight but unobtrusive, with thousands of police and military personnel ensuring the safety of the crowds. Despite the large gatherings, the events proceeded smoothly, with no major incidents reported. The celebrations extended beyond Jakarta, with similar events in provincial capitals like Surabaya, Bandung, and Makassar, where local governments organized their own parades and cultural shows. In Bali, for instance, the anniversary coincided with religious ceremonies, blending national pride with spiritual observances.

As the day drew to a close, fireworks lit up the Jakarta skyline, symbolizing the explosive spirit of independence. President Widodo, in a closing remark, urged Indonesians to look forward: "Our 80th year is not just a milestone but a launchpad for greater achievements. Let us build an Indonesia that is equitable, innovative, and resilient." The anniversary served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and the ongoing work to fulfill the promises of independence.

This year's commemoration was especially significant as Indonesia prepares for a leadership transition, with upcoming elections poised to shape the nation's future. The events not only honored the past but also inspired a collective vision for progress, fostering a sense of belonging among Indonesia's diverse population. From the solemn halls of the Merdeka Palace to the bustling festival grounds, the 80th independence anniversary encapsulated the enduring spirit of a nation that has overcome adversity to emerge as a key player on the world stage.

In remote areas, such as the eastern provinces, communities held smaller-scale celebrations, often incorporating local traditions like boat races in coastal villages or communal feasts in highland areas. These grassroots events highlighted how independence resonates at every level of society, from urban centers to rural outposts. Educational programs ran concurrently, with schools across the country hosting history lessons and essay competitions to instill patriotic values in the younger generation.

The international community also took note, with messages of congratulations pouring in from world leaders. U.S. President Joe Biden, for example, praised Indonesia's democratic resilience, while leaders from Australia and Japan acknowledged historical ties and future collaborations. Such global recognition underscores Indonesia's growing influence in Southeast Asia and beyond, particularly in areas like trade, security, and climate diplomacy.

Economically, the anniversary boosted local businesses, with tourism seeing a surge as visitors flocked to witness the spectacles. Hotels in Jakarta reported full occupancy, and vendors at the festival enjoyed brisk sales, contributing to the post-pandemic recovery. Cultural experts noted that these events play a crucial role in preserving intangible heritage, ensuring that traditions are passed down amidst rapid modernization.

As Indonesia reflects on 80 years of sovereignty, the celebrations reinforced themes of resilience and hope. From the echoes of Sukarno's proclamation to the vibrant displays of today, the nation continues to weave its diverse threads into a unified fabric, ready to face the challenges of the next era. The grand ceremony and public festival not only marked a historical milestone but also ignited a renewed sense of purpose for millions of Indonesians.

Read the Full Associated Press Article at:
[ https://apnews.com/video/indonesia-marks-80th-anniversary-of-its-independence-with-a-grand-ceremony-and-a-public-festival-8bf5995376e249dab7546ba6ab62bc87 ]

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Indonesia marks 80th anniversary of its independence with a grand ceremony and a public festival

Indonesia Celebrates 80th Independence Anniversary with Grand Ceremony and Vibrant Public Festival