Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — After a week of viral buzz, President Prabowo Subianto has responded on the growing trend of raising “One Piece” flag ahead of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebrations on August 17. The president, said he had no objection to the phenomenon, calling it a form of public expression and creativity.
The president statement was revealed by State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi at the Presidential Palace complex in Jakarta. “As a form of expression, it’s okay, no problem,” Prasetyo told reporters on Tuesday (August 5), as reported by Antara.
He stressed, however, that the pirate-themed flags should not be placed in opposition to the national Red and White flag. “Don’t pit it against or compare it with the Merah Putih. As Indonesians, the Red and White is our only national flag,” he said.
The “One Piece” flag has been spotted across Indonesia since early August, sparking social media discussions and street displays. The flag of the Straw Hat Pirates crew from the popular Japanese anime One Piece has been interpreted as a symbol of resistance against corrupt governments.
Many Indonesians see its recent display as a form of protest against the government and the country’s socio-political conditions. Several government officials have strongly criticized the flag-raising trend, saying it is not only a form of political criticism but also an attempt to sow division within the nation.
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However, responding to that interpretation, Prasetyo said the Palace remains open to criticism. “No problem. When it comes to criticism, we are very open. We acknowledge there’s still a lot of work to be done, many things to improve,” he said.
He described the flag displays as a legitimate form of community expression but cautioned against the movement being exploited by other groups, especially as Independence Day approaches.
Prasetyo also urged Indonesians, particularly younger generations, to safeguard the sanctity of national symbols and the independence month as a tribute to the heroes who fought for the country’s freedom.
(Raidi/Agung)
