'Independence Day, another donation'

Indonesia will be celebrating its 57th year of independence on Aug. 17. Across Jakarta, people have begun to prepare for the celebration by raising red-and-white flags and hanging strings of lights. A number of special events have also been prepared to mark the occasion. But what do people say about independence itself?

Jimi, 30s, a beverage vendor in the Blok M bus station in South Jakarta. He has lived in the city for 15 years, and currently resides in Kembangan, West Jakarta:

What do I care about Independence Day? It's just another excuse for officials in my neighborhood to demand money. They want the money for the celebrations. I'm broke, I have no money, but I have no choice but pay.

Indonesia is independent, you can see the red-and-white everywhere nowadays. If we weren't independent, how could we raise the flag?

That's my comment. Please, don't bother me with more questions about Independence Day. I have to make money today.

Yola, 25, an employee at a small company in Grogol, West Jakarta. She has lived in a rented room in the same area since she moved here from Manado, North Sulawesi, two years ago:

Independence Day means nothing to me. How can you be proud of being an independent country if the government is unable to improve its citizens' welfare?

I moved here from my hometown to get a job and a better life. But my diploma means nothing here. I am grateful I have a job, but my salary can hardly cover my daily expenses.

Why should I think about the meaning of Independence Day?

Rinto Hehamanua, 24, a student at a private university in Rawamangun, East Jakarta, who lives in Pancoran, South Jakarta:

Formally, Indonesia became an independent country with its declaration of independence on Aug. 17, 1945. But are we really independent?

I certainly don't think so. Our country, instead, depends on developed countries, particularly in economic matters. It seems that we can't live without financial assistance from other countries or international institutions.

This is rather sad because our country has abundant natural resources, as well as human resources. I don't know why we still have to rely on others. Is it the fault of the people for electing corrupt representatives to lead the country?

P. Dian, 17, a student at a state high school in Setiabudi, South Jakarta. She lives in Tebet, South Jakarta, with her parents and two siblings:

Yes, Indonesia is officially an independent country. But that does not mean Indonesia is free from colonization. I don't want to say anything more, but just look and see how most people my age look, think and act.

I don't know why they copy Western culture like that. Therefore, I say that we, Indonesians, are not independent. We have no identity of our own.

I think Indonesia is an independent country only in name.