Five Unique Flag Ceremonies in Several Regions in Indonesia When Celebrating Independence Day
Every August 17th, the whole of Indonesia celebrates Independence Day with various activities, one of which is the flag ceremony. However, in some regions, the flag ceremony is conducted uniquely and interestingly, reflecting the local community's rich culture and creativity. Here are five unique flag ceremonies celebrated in different parts of Indonesia to commemorate Independence Day.
- Underwater Flag Ceremony - Bunaken, North Sulawesi
In Bunaken, North Sulawesi, the flag ceremony is held under the sea. Divers, including members of the Indonesian Navy, the diving community, and local people, gather at the bottom of the sea to raise the red and white flag. This ceremony is not only a unique form of commemoration of independence but also a campaign to preserve Indonesia's ocean and underwater biodiversity. - Mountaintop Flag Ceremony - Mount Semeru, East Java
Mountain climbers celebrated Independence Day in a different way, holding a flag ceremony at the top of Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java. The ceremony involves climbers from various regions climbing for several days to reach the summit. Apart from being a form of commemoration, this ceremony also shows the spirit of nationalism and love for Indonesian nature. - Flag Ceremony on a Raft - Kapuas River, West Kalimantan
In Pontianak, West Kalimantan, the flag ceremony is held on a raft floating on the Kapuas River. The raft, decorated with various Kalimantan ornaments, carries the red and white flag, and the ceremony participants stand on it to carry out the flag-raising procession. This symbolizes respect for the river as the source of life for the local community. - Flag Ceremony in the Middle of the Lake - Lake Toba, North Sumatra
In Lake Toba, North Sumatra, the flag ceremony is carried out in the middle of the lake using traditional Batak boats. These boats are decorated with Ulos cloth and other traditional ornaments. Ceremony participants, including locals and tourists, follow the flag-raising procession on a boat floating on Indonesia's largest lake. - Flag Raising Ceremony at Pasir Berbisik - Bromo, East Java
In the tourist area of Mount Bromo, East Java, the flag ceremony takes place at Pasir Berbisik, a vast stretch of sand at the foot of the mountain. This ceremony is particularly iconic, as it takes place against the backdrop of an active volcano. Participants, consisting of locals, tourists, and nature lovers, wear traditional Tengger clothing and follow the flag-raising procession solemnly.
The flag ceremony on August 17 is not only a symbol of respect for the heroes who have fought for independence, but also a manifestation of love for the country and Indonesia's cultural diversity. These unique ways of celebrating Independence Day reflect the spirit of nationalism and pride in Indonesia's natural and cultural wealth. With the spirit of gotong royong and a sense of togetherness, this celebration is unforgettable for Indonesians.
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