Bandung, Indonesia Sentinel — As Indonesia prepares to mark its 80th Independence Day, the Bandung city government is taking a firm stance against a viral trend of hoisting pirate flag from the popular Japanese anime One Piece.
The iconic pirate flag from the straw hat crew, which some residents say they plan to raise as a form of symbolic expression, has gained traction on social media. But city officials stress that replacing the national red-and-white flag in public spaces is not permitted.
Deputy Mayor Erwin said the city will act decisively if the central government issues a formal ban on displaying non-state symbols during the month-long independence celebrations.
“We will follow the President’s directive. If it’s prohibited, we will take firm action,” Erwin told reporters on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
He added that flying any flag other than the Indonesian national flag in public areas during Independence Day celebrations is not allowed. Enforcement, he said, would be coordinated with the Regional Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimda), including the police, military, prosecutors, and courts.
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The One Piece flag, which in the fictional narrative symbolizes resistance against injustice and corrupt authority has been interpreted by some as a form of symbolic protest. But Bandung officials insist that, in the context of state observance, only the Merah Putih may be displayed during August.
“Other flags cannot be flown in public spaces during the independence month. That’s a civic duty,” Erwin said.
He also emphasized that any enforcement measures would only be taken if there is explicit legal authority or a formal directive from the central government. In the absence of such an order, the city will rely on public outreach and persuasion.
The State Secretariat has already issued a nationwide appeal for all government offices, schools, homes, and public facilities to fly the Merah Putih from August 1 to 31. The directive aims to honor the sacrifices of national heroes and strengthen unity.
The Bandung city administration said it will ensure compliance through intensified outreach at the neighborhood and district levels, working with community protection units and municipal police.
(Raidi/Agung)
