Dirgahayu RI (Long live Indonesia!)
Monday, 21 August 2006 @ 3:16pm.
It’s been a long holiday weekend for Indonesians. August 17th is Indonesia’s Independence Day. For a list of what generally happens, visit the site linked here.
One can see lots of red and white flags, bunting, and decorations throughout Jakarta now. Signs with “Dirgahayu RI (Long live Indonesia!)” are around as well. The following picture is one example of patriotism near where I work:
The streets look a lot cleaner, too, since neighborhood associations often organize kerja bakti (clean up of the local area).
I watched the flag ceremony at the National Palace live on television and heard the “Declaration of Independence.” To learn a little more about the Indonesian Declaration of Independence, click here. Though it’s only a couple of sentences, it was a big statement for the country and its people.
To read the President’s “State of the Nation Address,” click here.
Though Independence Day is usually a festive occasion, read this article regarding how sadness has shrouded the holiday this year.
Throughout the world, Indonesian embassies and consulates were also host to flag ceremonies in the morning of the 17th. Sadly I wasn’t able to attend the one in our consulate here… But my friends who attended said it was very much a festive event with food fair and sporting events being held after the flag ceremony and during the week. These events reminded me of my elementary school memories… Fun competitions like bag race and the like… no serious lessons during the day and we got to leave early ^^
>> Hmm.. come to think of it.. Australians don’t tend celebrate their foundations… not very patriotic I reckon.. But then again, it’s my view.. ^^
Comment by pengamat — August 22, 2006 @ 13:08 pm
Maju terus Indonesiaku..
Merdeka..!!
Comment by risal — August 24, 2006 @ 12:06 pm