Johnruf Niño Nuñala
- Sep 20, 2019
- 2 min read

Day 6 - Indonesia Raya Merdeka

Does freedom have value?

Freedom is a word that is defined as a right of every individual or to the country as a whole to act, speak and think without any restrains from others. It is a state of not being in bondage from a foreign force. The moment I arrived here in Indonesia, one visible thing I noticed are the flags along the highway and most of the houses along the road have set-up a curtain with a red and white combination similar to their flag. We were informed that this month (August) is the commemoration of their 74th Independence day. A day when the country was unshackled from the powers of foreign nation. Drums on the same rhythm, and a smile of excitement is seen everywhere not just on their capital city which is Jakarta but also in Purwokerto. People value their freedom and was able to establish their own government with their own identity. We came here on a perfect timing to witness how they celebrate their independence. The event is very symbolic and it was supported by all citizen of this country. Savoring the spirit of independence increases its value and doing everything to preserve its purpose will make it eternal.

A huge gathering at the plaza

Flag raising ceremony during the commemoration of Indonesia's 74th Independence day.

Mass (Thai SEA-Teacher exchange) and I went to Baturraden early in the morning to witness the flag raising ceremony for the commemoration of their National Independence. The field was filled with several groups of people coming from different schools and all sectors and employees in the district. Ibu Cici accompanied us to be at the tent where all prominent and important people were seated. We feel honored at this very moment sharing this momentous event with significant people in the district. The ceremony started with some songs from a group of teachers in primary education. It was followed by placing the flag on a a rope in order to raise it moment after. It was spearheaded by the District head which they call it “Camat” as well as students mostly from SMA Baturraden wearing a clean white uniform. The flag was raised while every citizen around the field heartily sing their precious national anthem which is entitled “Indonesia Raya”. The Proclamation of Indonesian Independence written and signed by Seokarno and Hatta was reverberated during the event. The ceremony was very orderly which you can see the discipline of the citizens of Baturraden. The event ended with a parade of students as well as other employees of the district accompanied by drum and bugle core.