Komnas HAM Chairperson Anis Hidayah explained that it is essentially a symbolic expression by citizens, guaranteed by the 1945 Constitution, as part of the right to opinion and expression.
"Actually, that is a symbolic expression by citizens, which is guaranteed by the Constitution, as part of the right to opinion and expression," Hidayah told ANTARA here on Wednesday.
She also emphasized that the state must guarantee the rights of all its citizens.
"Especially during this independence month, the government should ensure that the public is free to exercise their rights," she remarked.
Hence, Komnas HAM expressed regret over the excessive reactions to the use of such symbols. An overreaction is seen as potentially obstructing the public's right to express their opinions and ideas.
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"We regret any bans, excessive responses, including removals or arrests. Those actions should not be taken," he stated.
Looking ahead, Komnas HAM urged the government to respond to public expression more wisely and to continuously uphold every citizen's rights.
"Komnas HAM urges the government not to overreact in its response and encourages the government to guarantee freedom of expression in Indonesia, especially in fulfilling its duty to respect, protect, and fulfill human rights," Hidayah stated.
Earlier, Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi reminded the public that the hoisting of the One Piece pirate flag ahead of August 17, 2025, should not undermine the sanctity of the Indonesian 80th Independence Day commemoration.
"We hope that the (independence month of) August is not tainted by things that diminish its sacredness. This is the 80th anniversary of our independence," Hadi stated at the parliamentary complex on August 4.
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Translator: Fath, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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