The ceremony was enlivened by the performance of a marching band from the Pangudi Luhur Integrated Center (STPL) in Bekasi, consisting of people with visual impairments.
They enthusiastically celebrated the ceremony by performing national songs such as "Hari Merdeka" (Independence Day) and "Berkibarlah Benderaku".
One of the marching band members, Ilham (23), from Baubau, Southeast Sulawesi, expressed his pride in performing at the Independence Day celebration.
"I am very proud to be here to participate in the celebration. For me, independence means freedom, including for people with disabilities, for our rights to be fulfilled. Thank God, I had the opportunity to actualize myself here," he stated.
This year marks Ilham's second time participating in the Indonesian Independence Day commemoration at the Social Affairs Ministry office.
Their performances were not only entertaining but also demonstrated that limitations do not hinder the spirit of contributing to the nation.
The ceremony was led by the Inspector General of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Dody Sukmono, who wore traditional Dayak attire. Meanwhile, Minister of Social Affairs Saifullah Yusuf and Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono attended the state ceremony at the Merdeka Palace alongside President Prabowo Subianto.
All Ministry of Social Affairs employees attended the ceremony in traditional Nusantara attire, showcasing the nation's cultural diversity.
The presence of these traditional outfits added to the vibrancy and solemnity of the ceremony, in line with the theme of this year's 80th Indonesian Independence Day: “United and Sovereign, Prosperous People, and Advanced Indonesia.”
This theme reflects the spirit of nationalism that must be preserved as a foundation for moving forward.
The ceremony took place solemnly, with the raising of the Indonesian flag, accompanied by the national anthem "Indonesia Raya," the reading of the Proclamation and the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution, and a moment of silence in remembrance of the heroes.
The Ministry also presented the Satyalancana Karya Satya (Serving Service) awards to several employees who had served for 10, 20, and 30 years. This honorary award came from the President of the Republic of Indonesia as a token of appreciation for the dedication of employees who have worked with loyalty, honesty, skill, and discipline.
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Translator: Lintang Budiyanti P, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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