Government Ensures 81st Independence Day Commemoration Closer to the People

The government wants to make the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia a celebration that is closer to the people through a series of participatory and inclusive activities that can be enjoyed by all levels of society. This was affirmed by the Head of the Government Communication Body (Bakom RI), Muhammad Qodari. “We want to ensure that the fruits of development are not enjoyed by just a handful of people, but can be felt tangibly, more widely, and evenly by every citizen across the archipelago. The government really wants this year’s independence commemoration to feel different and closer to the people’s hearts,” he said in a statement on Tuesday, 4 August 2026. He also emphasised that this is not merely a change of the month on the calendar, but a valuable reminder for Indonesia as a great nation. “Let us make this 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia a strong foothold to re-weave our mutual cooperation. Let us ignite a sense of optimism to continue the development of this country we love,” Qodari said. This year, the 81st Independence Day carries the theme ‘Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia’, a call for all elements of the nation to work together and collaborate to realise the founders’ ideals. The spirit of togetherness is also reflected in the direct involvement of the public in the selection process for the official 81st Independence Day logo. The series of Independence Month activities began with a National Remembrance and Prayer event at the National Monument in Jakarta on 1 August. Throughout August, various state agendas will be held, including the conferment of state honours and awards. On 14 August, President Prabowo Subianto will deliver the State Address and the Speech on the Introduction of the 2027 State Budget Bill and its Financial Memorandum before the House of Representatives. Ahead of Independence Day, on 15 August, the government will hold a National Pilgrimage, Honour Ceremony, and Reflection as a tribute to the independence fighters and national heroes. The peak of the 81st Independence Day commemoration will take place on 17 August with the Proclamation Seconds Commemoration Ceremony and the National Flag Lowering Ceremony.