Red and White Parade Urges Young Generation to Preserve Unity and Tolerance
Young people are being encouraged to continue preserving unity and tolerance amid the diversity of Indonesian society. The call was made during the Red and White Parade held in Central Jakarta to commemorate the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia on Tuesday (18/8/2026).
Raja Agung, a representative of the Indonesian Republic Student and Youth Movement, said the spirit of independence can be realised through concern for various national issues. According to him, the younger generation has an important role in maintaining togetherness amid the diversity of Indonesian society.
“The spirit of independence must be realised through concern for the nation’s problems. One of them is by encouraging the eradication of corruption, combating drug abuse, and strengthening unity amid the diversity of Indonesian society,” said Raja Agung in a statement received on Thursday (19/8/2026).
According to Agung, Indonesia’s diversity is a strength that must be preserved together. Differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, and background can become a strength to strengthen brotherhood if approached with mutual respect.
“Differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, and background are the nation’s wealth that must be safeguarded together,” he said.
The parade was attended by various youth and student organisations, including Muslimah Gerakan Pemuda Islam, Gerakan Mahasiswa dan Pemuda Republik Indonesia, the South Tangerang Batak Student Association, Aktivist Connection, Solidaritas Pemuda Desa, and Pemuda Papua Jabodetabek.
The series of activities began with the singing of the national anthem Indonesia Raya, followed by a national parade and the unfurling of an 81-metre Red and White flag. Participants also presented ondel-ondel, angklung performances, Papuan dance, and national orations.
The presence of participants from various backgrounds and the cultural performances during the parade strengthened the atmosphere of togetherness. The activity also served as a space for the younger generation to cultivate concern for unity and harmonious social life.
Agung said the spirit of unity needs to be applied in daily life, not only during independence commemoration moments. According to him, the younger generation can play a role through mutual respect, maintaining tolerance, and responding to information wisely.
The spirit of the Red and White Parade is expected to continue through the involvement of young people in various positive activities. By nurturing tolerance and brotherhood, the younger generation can help strengthen unity and safeguard the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.