Indonesian Culture Minister: Independence Day Is a Moment to Remember the Nation’s Struggle

Jakarta, August 17, 2026 — Indonesia’s Independence Day is a moment for reflection and for honoring the long struggle, sacrifice, and unity of the nation’s predecessors in confronting colonialism and foreign occupation.

This was stated by Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, in his remarks during the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia at the Ministry of Culture office in Jakarta on Monday (August 17, 2026).

Fadli Zon further stated that the spirit of the independence struggle emerged from across the Indonesian archipelago, driven by the determination to shape the nation’s own future. He emphasized that Indonesia’s independence is a historical responsibility that must be preserved and carried forward in the best possible way.

Fadli also stated that diversity serves as a reminder that all members of society must come together in order to move forward.

“We must turn our differences into our strength. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika—Unity in Diversity—is not merely a motto, but a commitment that our differences must become a unifying strength, rather than a reason to demean or divide one another,” he said.

The ceremony also included the reading of the Presidential Decree of the Republic of Indonesia on the awarding of the Satyalancana Karya Satya, a state decoration for dedicated public service. The Minister of Culture symbolically presented the Satyalancana Karya Satya to representatives of the recipients within the Ministry of Culture. (Ministry of Culture/Tin)