Indonesia Adds Post-Independence Day National Holiday

KOMPAS.com - President Prabowo Subianto has designated August 18, 2025, as a special public holiday, extending the celebrations for Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day.

“This is another gift, there are many gifts this independence month. The government will declare Monday, August 18, 2025, the day after the flag-raising ceremony, the People’s Festival, and the Independence Carnival, a national holiday," said Deputy Minister of State Secretariat Juri Ardiantoro at the Presidential Office in Jakarta on Friday.

According to Juri, the extra day off is part of several initiatives the government has prepared to mark the milestone anniversary.

Baca juga: Bali Ranked 3rd Best Island in the World for 2025. So, Who’s No. 1?

He explained that the additional holiday aims to give communities more time and freedom to organize traditional competitions and activities that enliven Independence Day commemorations across the country.

“We encourage communities to revive local competitions that spark creativity,” said Juri.

Juri also called for celebrations to reach beyond the national stage in Jakarta to towns and villages nationwide. He urged the public, local governments, schools, universities, state owned companies, regional enterprises, and the private sector to participate actively.

One way, he said, is by displaying the national flag, the red and white Merah Putih, and colorful decorations at homes and in neighborhoods throughout Indonesia.

“We encourage everyone to wear Independence Day attributes and organize various competitions and cultural events with joy,” he added.

This year’s 80th Independence Day festivities will culminate in a grand celebration in Jakarta. To mark the beginning of the independence month, the government will hold a joint prayer gathering at the Proclamation Monument on Friday night. Proclamation Monument is a historic site in Jakarta where Indonesia’s independence was declared.