The Indonesian government is finalizing preparations for the 80th Independence Day celebrations, set to take place at the State Palace in Jakarta on August 17, 2025. This year’s commemorations will host a total of 16,000 invited guests, split evenly between the morning flag-raising ceremony and the evening flag-lowering event.
Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, who also serves as Chair of the Organizing Committee, confirmed that each session will welcome 8,000 guests. The high level of public enthusiasm means many citizens eager to attend may not secure a spot.
“We sincerely apologize because, due to limited space, not everyone who is enthusiastic can join the celebration in person,” Prasetyo said.
As in previous years, official invitees are encouraged to wear traditional Indonesian attire. However, the general public attending nearby activities is not bound by a strict dress code.
“What’s important is the spirit. If you have red or red-and-white themed clothing at home, it would be great to wear it,” Prasetyo noted.
To accommodate the large crowd and maintain order, the committee has prepared eight entry gates to the State Palace grounds. These access points were chosen to ensure smooth guest flow and reduce congestion.
“There might be eight entry gates,” Prasetyo told reporters during the second rehearsal for the ceremony, as quoted by IndonesiaInside.
Two of the gates will be located along Jalan Medan Merdeka Utara, facing the National Monument (Monas), a key area for managing the arrival of guests. The remaining gates will be positioned to serve different categories of invitees, including dignitaries, government officials, and members of the public.
“All routes from the Palace toward Monas have been tested for both left and right entry points. We have also prepared several gates from the back of the State Palace. Everything is being simulated to ensure smooth entry,” he explained.
Detailed Seating and Entry Arrangements
Prasetyo emphasized that guest seating and entry points are carefully assigned in the invitations, with separate areas for public figures, government officials, and other participants.
“We hope everyone follows the guidance and reads their invitation details. If all goes according to plan, the event will run smoothly,” he added.
Preparations have been underway for weeks, including joint rehearsals involving 76 prospective members of the National Flag Hoisting Troop (Paskibraka), military and police units, the State Palace music corps, and the Indonesian Air Force’s flypast team.
In addition to official protocol, the celebration will feature performances from community groups, cultural troupes, and government institutions. Prasetyo noted that many creative ideas continue to come in, and the committee is open to incorporating them as long as they do not disrupt the main ceremony.
With meticulous planning and nationwide enthusiasm, the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence is expected to be both orderly and festive, reflecting the unity and pride of the Indonesian people.
Source: Setneg, IndonesiaInside
Photo Credit: AntaraNews
