On television and social media, we are expecting all to participate
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The COVID-19 pandemic will not dampen the spirit and festivities of Indonesia's 75th Anniversary commemoration on August 17.

Although plans have been made for a big event to commemorate Indonesia's 75th Anniversary themed “Onward Indonesia,” prepared by the government, it was ultimately cancelled due to the pandemic. However, the government ensures that festivities will still be taking place nationwide.

Minister of State Secretary, Pratikno, noted that the commemoration of the 75th Independence Day Anniversary should still portray Indonesia as a vast nation, with solid economic, social, and political sectors.

"Although it is not according to plan, the commemoration of Indonesia's 75th Anniversary should still be observed solemnly. Festivities should be continued while also maintaining the people's enthusiasm, creativity, and innovation. It is merely a matter of health protocols to ensure safety from the COVID-19 pandemic," Pratikno noted in Jakarta, Monday.

He further explained that the government had earlier prepared and designed several events involving the public, including carnivals and parades, for which representatives of partner countries had confirmed their attendance.

However, the pandemic had necessitated a shift in all plans for the events for which the government currently needs to make adjustments.

As a replacement, the government is currently making preparations for various events that all can participate through the virtual medium.

Pratikno further expounded that the festivities to commemorate Independence Day, bearing the main theme “Onward Indonesia,” had begun since July 1 when the government had urged all parties to start putting up the logo and theme of Indonesia's 75th Anniversary at public places and streets as well as on means of public transportation.

"On television and social media, we are expecting all to participate," he remarked.

Furthermore, as the month of the Independence Day draws closer, the Onward Indonesia theme will continue to be promoted along with the installation of the national red and white flag throughout the nation.

He further noted that competitions can still be held, albeit with the application of stringent health protocols. Moreover, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy had been preparing several virtual competition events.

Indonesia's 75th Anniversary commemoration will bear the theme “Onward Indonesia,” featuring a logo inspired by the shield on the Garuda Pancasila. The Onward Indonesia theme is a representation of Pancasila as a guiding beacon to life as a nation.

The guidelines to the visual identity and the logo can be downloaded through www.setneg.go.id. Related news: Universities should apply sciences to combat COVID-19: Minister

Related news: COVID-19 recovery rate in Indonesia's 11 provinces has exceeded 75 pct

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Translator: Rangga Jingga/Aria Cindyara
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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