Happy Birthday Indonesia !!

Today is Indonesia independence day, it was 68 year since Indonesia formally declared it. We have one day-off to celebrate it. Commonly we have flag ceremony and independence event such as mini contest and midnight silence moment. Different with UK which have a few days of independence day because of its individual country (England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland). Indonesia only have one day to celebrate it (on August 17). But usually we have 1 until 2 weeks full of events before August 17th.

In the run up to the celebrations, malls and the fences around the presidential building is adorned with red and white buntings. The city of Surabaya wears an air of festivity and the area between Jl. Mayjen Sungkono and Jl. Ahmad Yani is done up with unique decorations that reflect the spirit of independence. Neighborhood associations arrange kerja bakti or community service which includes cleaning the residential areas. The residents are also requested host flags for a set duration of time. Finally, on the eve of Independence Day, the President delivers addresses the nation.

These preparations culminate into the grand celebrations of the Independence Day that usually begins with flag hoisting ceremony in the presidential place. High school students chosen from across the country for their marching skills, put up a colorful show while the Indonesian flag hoisted. This is followed by parades and fun-filled activities for the public. These include as Krupuk (shrimp chips) eating, bike decorating, and cooking contests. One of the popular games played on this day is Panjat Pinang in which participants climb the greased trunk Areca palm tree.

Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed – else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die. You give me your blood and I will give you Independence! – Jawaharlal Nehru