"Independence is not just a right, but a mandate to realize the noble goals outlined in the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution," Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra said.
Speaking at an Independence Day ceremony in Jakarta on Sunday, he said those goals include protecting all Indonesians, advancing public welfare, educating the nation, and contributing to global peace and justice.
Related news: Prabowo debuts as leader of Independence Day Flag Ceremony
Mahendra emphasized that the nation’s freedom was not handed down by history, but earned through unity, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to the homeland.
"We stand under the Red and White flag today not because time has passed, but because of the struggle, love, and unity of those who came before us," he said.
Quoting Indonesia's first President Soekarno, Mahendra reminded the public that independence is only the beginning.
"Independence is merely a golden bridge, on the other side of which lies a field that we must cultivate with work and devotion for all the people," Soekarno once said.
Mahendra said the 80th anniversary of independence should serve as a call to realize the nation’s long-term vision of a "Golden Indonesia" by 2045.
This year's Independence Day theme, "United and Sovereign, Prosperous People, Advanced Indonesia," reflects that aspiration, he added.
Related news: Over 1,000 dancers mark Indonesia's 80th Independence Day
Translator: Fath, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
