Indonesia prepares for 81st Independence Day celebrations

Indonesia is preparing for its 81st Independence Day celebrations with various community and state activities. In Jakarta, State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi announced that the government has increased the capacity for the public to attend the ceremony at Istana Merdeka after receiving over 336,000 applicants. The expanded quota includes an additional 3,400 slots, and priority will be given to first-time attendees to ensure a diverse representation of citizens.

Across the nation, diverse celebrations are underway. These include community fun walks by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights in Bali and NTB, health screenings and cataract surgeries provided by ministries for inmates and the public, and local festivities such as traditional games in Aceh and community walks in Blora and Magelang. In Surabaya, educational sessions on social security were integrated into independence festivities, while in Bantul, officials encouraged citizens to fly the national flag to foster patriotism.

Additionally, religious and social organizations are participating, with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) issuing guidance on the ethics of competition prizes to avoid gambling practices. Meanwhile, organizations like the Legiun Veteran Republik Indonesia are being honored through social activities at various locations, including Surabaya, to celebrate National Veteran Day and Independence Day.