The commemoration of Indonesia’s Independence Day at the Merdeka Palace was marked by a poignant moment when President Prabowo Subianto kissed the national flag, the Red-and-White (Merah Putih), before it was handed over to the Heritage Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka). This act of deep reverence symbolized a new tradition in the country’s state ceremonies. The flag was then passed to Farrel Argantha Irawan, a student from Highscope Indonesia TB Simatupang Senior High School, who led the flag-raising procession as a representation of metropolitan youth upholding the nation’s dignity. Among the attendees were former President Joko Widodo and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who witnessed the symbolic hoisting of the flag alongside other distinguished guests. As the Red-and-White ascended the flagpole, the crowd stood in respect while the national anthem, Indonesia Raya, echoed throughout the palace grounds. Following the ceremony, white doves were released into the sky, symbolizing peace and national unity.
Prabowo Kisses Red-and-White Flag at Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day Ceremony
