Indonesia celebrates 80th anniversary of independence

Jakarta, August 17th (Xinhua) - August 17th is Indonesia's Independence Day, and this island nation celebrates its 80th anniversary of independence in various ways.

Indonesian President Prabowo, dressed in traditional ethnic costumes, presided over the 80th anniversary celebration of independence in Jakarta on that day. This is the first time he has presided over the Independence Day flag raising ceremony as the head of state since taking office as president. Several former presidents, vice presidents, military and political officials, ambassadors from various countries to Indonesia, and representatives from various sectors of society attended. According to the official introduction, the event also specially invited grassroots people such as farmers, fishermen, and vendors to enter the Presidential Palace.

On August 17th, the Indonesian honor guard participated in the Independence Day celebration. Photo by Li Zhiquan, reporter from China News Service

At the scene, the reporter saw a carriage carrying the Indonesian red and white flag and the text of the Declaration of Independence, starting from the National Independence Monument in the center of Independence Square and slowly heading towards the Presidential Palace, attracting tens of thousands of spectators along the way. The red and white flags on both sides of the road are fluttering in the wind, and the shop windows are newly decorated, exuding a festive atmosphere everywhere.

On August 17, 1945, Sukarno, the "father of independence" of Indonesia, read out the Declaration of Independence in Jakarta, declaring the establishment of the Republic of Indonesia. Over the past 80 years, Indonesia has developed into the most populous and economically largest country in Southeast Asia, playing an important role in regional and international affairs.

After seventeen salutes, the celebration officially began. Prabowo read the Declaration of Independence from 80 years ago and led all attendees to observe a moment of silence for the martyrs. The national flag guards entered the venue neatly and raised the red and white flag, which symbolizes independence and sovereignty. The formation of air force fighter jets whizzed across the sky, spraying red and white smoke, causing cheers from the scene.

The celebration ended with the ensemble of multiple local songs, and the solemn atmosphere immediately turned into a public celebration. Subsequently, a float parade was held on the streets of Jakarta, accompanied by music, food, and fireworks performances.

Not only in Jakarta, but also in various places, celebrations are being held simultaneously. In Yogyakarta, 80 wax artists collaborated to create 80 square meters of red and white wax dyed fabric; In the province of West Nusa Tenggara, people celebrate National Day by climbing betel nut trees and engaging in folk entertainment; In the new capital Nusantara, tree planting campaigns and community carnivals were held consecutively.

According to the arrangement, the Indonesian government will have a special day off on the 18th to facilitate public participation in various celebration activities.