- 17 August every year
- Proclamation read in 1945
- Red and white flag
- Indonesia
Where it began
The islands of Indonesia were under Dutch rule for a long time, and under Japanese occupation during the Second World War.
On 17 August 1945, Sukarno read the Proclamation of Independence in Jakarta, with Mohammad Hatta at his side. Sukarno became the first president and Hatta the first vice president. Years of struggle followed before the Netherlands recognised Indonesia in 1949.
How it grew over time
1928
The Youth Pledge called for one homeland, one nation and one language.
17 August 1945
Sukarno and Hatta proclaimed independence in Jakarta.
1945 to 1949
Indonesians struggled to defend their new nation.
1949
The Netherlands recognised Indonesian sovereignty.
Today
Every town, school and office takes part in the celebrations.
How it is celebrated in different places
Jakarta
The flag is raised at the Merdeka Palace in a grand ceremony.
Villages across Indonesia
Neighbours hold games like climbing a greased pole and sack races.
Bali
Streets are dressed in red and white along with local decorations.
Schools
Students march, sing and join flag ceremonies on the morning of the day.
Indonesia Independence Day today
Weeks before, homes and streets are decorated with red and white flags and banners. On the day, people stand still for the flag raising, then join lively contests like eating crackers on strings, called lomba makan kerupuk.
