Youth and students hold Red and White Parade in Central Jakarta

Thousands of youth and students from various groups held a Red and White Parade in Central Jakarta to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s independence.

Raja Agung, a representative of the Indonesian Youth and Students Movement (GMPRI), said the spirit of independence must be realised through concern for the nation’s problems, including eradicating corruption and drug abuse.

“The spirit of independence must be realised through concern for the nation’s problems. One way is by pushing for the eradication of corruption, fighting drug abuse, and strengthening unity amid the diversity of Indonesian society,” Agung said in a statement in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The event served as a momentum for the younger generation to strengthen unity while encouraging the public not to be easily provoked by information or issues that could divide the nation.

The parade carried the theme “Momentum for the Unity of the Nation’s Children: Fly the Red and White, Eliminate Corruptors, Clean Up Drugs, Uphold Unity Without Provocation!”.

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 showcased various regional arts and cultures, including ondel-ondel, angklung, and Papuan dance, as well as delivering national orations.

Agung said the diversity of ethnicity, religion, culture, and background is a national treasure that must be safeguarded together.

“Differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, and background are a national treasure that must be protected together,” he said.

He expressed hope that the spirit of unity brought through the Red and White Parade would not stop as a ceremonial activity, but would be realised through the active role of the younger generation in safeguarding the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

The event also served as an invitation to youth and students to strengthen tolerance and work together to build an Indonesia that is clean, safe, and united.

“Unity is an important asset for Indonesia to face various challenges and embrace the future,” Agung said.