Hatta's centennial day in Padang

JAKARTA: The 100th anniversary of the country's founding father and first vice president Mohammad Hatta will be observed in a special way, organizers said on Wednesday.

Chairman of the event's organizing committee Adi Sasono said after meeting with Vice President Hamzah Haz that the celebration would be held on Aug. 12 in Bukittinggi, the birthplace of Hatta.

Hamzah confirmed on Wednesday his presence in the celebration.

Another festivity in remembrance of Hatta will take place at the National Archives building in Central Jakarta. President Megawati Soekarnoputri is expected to attend the event, although its date remains undecided.

Hatta and Sukarno proclaimed Indonesia's independence on Aug. 17, 1945. Both were then named vice president and president respectively.

Adi said a special commemoration would be dedicated to Hatta, in recognition of his being a role model as a democrat and independence fighter.

A series of events will precede the celebrations, including a seminar and the launching of a book on Hatta, a postal stamp and golden coin dedicated to him. -- JP