The atmosphere at the flag-lowering ceremony during Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day commemoration at Merdeka Palace on August 17 was solemn and emotional for many, including Jakarta resident Titi Nurdianti from Cilacap, Central Java. Titi shared her experience of securing an official ticket for the ceremony, describing it as overwhelming and moving. Despite facing tough online competition to obtain the ticket, she expressed pure joy and emotional satisfaction upon finally securing it. This was Titi’s first time attending the ceremony, which she usually watched on television. She wore traditional attire from West Nusa Tenggara to mark the occasion, emphasizing her connection to the region. Titi fondly recalled the flag-lowering ceremony followed by a procession to the National Monument, intensifying the festive spirit of the Independence Day celebration. Amid her tears and joy, Titi offered prayers and optimistic wishes for Indonesia’s future, expressing hope for continued progress, prosperity, justice, and peace. She also extended prayers for President Prabowo’s health and leadership to further strengthen Indonesia.
Emotional Reactions at Merdeka Palace Independence Day Ceremony
