Differences Between Merdeka Palace and State Palace: Where Is the Independence Day Ceremony Held?

Ahead of the 81st Independence Day commemoration, public enthusiasm is building to attend the ceremony at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta. Many are asking whether the 17 August ceremony is held at Merdeka Palace or State Palace. The two buildings are located within the same complex and are both part of the Presidential Palace, but they have different locations, histories, and functions. The government has opened public registration to attend the Proclamation Seconds Commemoration and the Flag Lowering Ceremony for the 81st Independence Day on 17 August 2026. Registration is conducted through the Pandang Istana portal from 5 to 7 August 2026 or until the quota is met. Deputy Minister of State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro explained that the government is providing 8,100 slots for the public in each ceremony session, both morning and afternoon, through a war ticket mechanism. According to official information from the Indonesia Portal and InfoPublik, Merdeka Palace and State Palace stand side by side in the Jakarta Presidential Palace Complex but face different directions. Merdeka Palace is located on Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara, Central Jakarta, facing directly towards the National Monument area. Meanwhile, State Palace is situated on Jalan Veteran, Central Jakarta, facing the Ciliwung River. The two buildings are connected by a central courtyard, making them appear as a single structure at a glance. This difference in orientation often causes confusion in distinguishing between Merdeka Palace and State Palace. Merdeka Palace serves as the venue for the President’s various activities, including receiving state guests, state receptions, and important ceremonies. Its front courtyard is the location for the Proclamation Seconds Commemoration Ceremony every 17 August, meaning invited members of the public will enter the Merdeka Palace area. The building also holds historical significance as the site where the recognition of sovereignty of the Republic of the United States of Indonesia was signed on 27 December 1949. State Palace primarily functions as a venue for official state events, such as the inauguration of high-ranking officials, the opening of national and international congresses, national working meetings, and state banquets. During Independence Day commemorations, it is commonly used for official presidential agendas, including banquets with veterans and invited guests. The State Palace building was originally the private residence of J.A. van Braam, built at the end of the 18th century, before its function shifted to a government centre during the Dutch East Indies era. Although located in one complex, the independence ceremony has long been centred in the front courtyard of Merdeka Palace, which offers a spacious field for the flag ceremonies. Therefore, members of the public who successfully obtain an invitation through the war ticket system will attend the 81st Independence Day ceremony at Merdeka Palace, not State Palace.