Deputy State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro said at a press conference at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta on Friday that the event is designed to encourage everyone to participate in the nation's Independence Day celebrations.
"The Merdeka Run is a fun run that invites all members of the public to participate," Juri said.
He said the 2026 Merdeka Run will start in front of the Merdeka Palace and feature four race distances: 1 kilometer, 5 kilometers, 8 kilometers, and 10 kilometers.
Participants will not be charged a registration fee and will receive a finisher's medal as part of the event, he added.
Juri said the organizing committee has prepared prizes for the winners of the Merdeka Run.
The Merdeka Run will serve as one of the closing events of the 2026 Independence Month celebrations, which include a series of activities held throughout August to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence.
The national Independence Month program is supported by various ministries and government agencies, state-owned enterprises (SOEs), regional administrations, the Indonesian National Armed Forces, the National Police, and other stakeholders.
Related news: Indonesia expects 100,000 people at Independence prayer gathering
Related news: Ministry seeks immersive art experiences for Independence Day
Translator: Bayu Prasetyo
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2026
