Mu'ti began his speech by resounding "Merdeka!" (Independent!) -- a cry echoed by all attendants.
"We are grateful to God that the Republic of Indonesia remains united, sovereign, and continues to move forward as a great and dignified nation," he said.
Mu'ti emphasized that the commemoration of independence is not merely a declaration of political sovereignty or freedom from colonialism, but also a reaffirmation of cultural sovereignty and a gateway to national greatness and glory.
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He said the Ministry is committed to educating the younger generation with the spirit of independence, instilling values of perseverance, patriotism, and responsibility.
He explained that the theme of the 80th Independence Day, "United and Sovereign, Prosperous People, Advanced Indonesia," is aligned with the goals of the state as enshrined in the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution.
The theme is relevant to the goals of protecting the entire nation, promoting people's welfare, educating the nation, and contributing to global peace.
Following the flag ceremony, the 80th Independence Day celebration continued with various activities that promote togetherness, including bakiak trumpet races, tug-of-war, panjat bambu betung (bamboo climbing), a wayang performance by puppeteer Ki Bagonk Darmono, and live painting by Indonesian artists.
Other activities offer traditional snacks, and present gerobak dorong, a Malay orchestra performance.
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Translator: Hana, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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