This becomes our collective determinationTokyo (ANTARA) - Indonesian Ambassador to Japan and Federated States of Micronesia Heri Akhmadi urged Indonesians in Japan to revive stronger in facing the pandemic and crisis in the commemoration of Indonesia's 77th Independence Day Anniversary (HUT RI).
"We,who are abroad, certainly have the duty to help the country recover both economically and from COVID-19. Recover faster and revive stronger," he noted at the Indonesia Center, Tokyo Republic of Indonesia School, here, Wednesday.
In his remark during Indonesia's 77th Independence Day Anniversary celebrations, he urged that the recovery should not only reach that before the pandemic but should in fact be far stronger and developed.
"This becomes our collective determination," her remarked.
During the momentum of Indonesia's 77th Independence Day Anniversary, Akhmadi expects that the great figure can be a good beginning for Indonesians' struggle throughout this time.
“Some 77 years ago, we strove to liberate ourselves from invaders. Some 77 years later, we have to work hard to help our nation break free from the pandemic and the extraordinary world economic crisis,” he affirmed.
Related news: First Lady Iriana wears Buton tribal attire at Independence ceremony
Akhmadi highlighted that August 17, some 77 years ago coincided with the month of Ramadhan that is also a month of struggle.
“We should grasp the (true) meaning (and essence) of the struggle because during the independence period, the struggle was very difficult," he remarked.
Indonesian gained its independence about two days after the declaration of Japan's surrender to the Allies during World War II.
To fill the power vacuum, the nation's father Soekarno seized the opportunity to proclaim Indonesia's independence.
"Hence, Indonesia's independence is not Japan's gift. Japan already surrendered. It is not possible for people, who have surrendered, to give independence to Indonesia. Indonesia's independence is the result of our struggle," he noted.
In addition, the youth during that period played an important role owing to their planned abduction of Soekarno, with the intent of coercing him into conceding to declare independence.
Related news: President pays respects to heroes interred at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery
However, the struggle does not end there. Indonesia's independence was only acknowledged by the Netherlands four years later after the Allies won the World War II.
Within that time period, major battles erupted, such as the battle in Surabaya that is commemorated as Heroes Day every November 10.
"Independence is something that is fought for, not just received," Akhmadi remarked.
"All of this is an effort to build the nation's awareness that Indonesia is built not based on ethnicity, but on common struggle to fight for Indonesia," he affirmed.
To this end, Indonesia, as a country with the largest number of ethnicities reaching 200 and 400 regional languages, should remain united under the slogan of Bhineka Tunggal Ika, or Unity in Diversity.
The ambassador also noted that this slogan is important during the commemoration today and for other national events.
Related news: President Jokowi welcomes National U-16 Team at Merdeka Palace
Related news: National relics transported by golden coach to Merdeka Palace
Translator: Juwita Trisna R, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
