17 August 2014
The most solemn ceremony is the flag hoisting at the National Palace,
televised live. Full of pomp and circumstance and conducted basically the
same way each year, it is a spectacle of the greatest respect and honor
for the flag and the Republic. The ceremonies are led by the President
and Vice President, and attended by the cabinet, military brass, family
members of the current and preceding president, diplomatic corps and honored
guests.
High School students from throughout the archipelago are chosen
for their marching skills and put on a show of intricate steps and turns
to hoist the flag. The military is out with all its brass in high shine,
standing smartly at attention in their dress uniforms.
While the solemn ceremonies are taking place, neighborhoods gear
up for fun and games for the kids. Krupuk (shrimp chips) eating
contests, bike decorating, games, races and lots of fun fill the day. The
women are busy in cooking contests to see who can make the biggest krupuk or the most delicious nasi tumpeng.
One of the most popular games is the Panjat Pinang. An Areca
palm trunk is erected in a public area and well greased with a mixture
of clay and oil. At the top are hung various prizes like bikes and TVs.
Whoever makes it to the top wins the prize. Needless to say there are a
lot of slippery, muddy kids and grownups alike climbing over each other
and struggling to reach the goal. A good time is had by all, especially
the crowd watching the gaiety.
Mini Glossary
| Dirgahayu RI | Long live Indonesia! |
| Kerja bakti | Volunteer work conducted for the good of the community |
| Krupuk | Shrimp chips |
| Monas | Area surrounding Monumen Nasional (National Monument), called “Monas” or Merdeka Square. |
| Nasi tumpeng | Cone of yellow rice, with various dishes, served at ceremonies |
| Panjat Pinang | Game commonly held on Indonesian Independence Day |
| RT | Neighborhood head, neighborhood unit - Rukun Tetangga |
