Today IDC Dive Resort Oceans 5 is totally covers in Red and White! It is independence day in Indonesia and Red and White are the colors of the flag!
Independence day Indonesia Gili Islands IDC dive resort
When does Indonesia celebrate its Independence Day?
On August 17, 1945, Indonesia declared its independence from Netherlands. This declaration of independence was met with vehement opposition from the Dutch rulers, and was followed by four years of unrest and diplomatic meetings. Finally, in 1949, the Dutch officially recognized the independence ofIndonesia but it was not until 2005 that Dutch accepted August 17 1945, as Indonesia’s official date of independence.
Independence day Indonesia Gili Islands IDC dive resort
How is the Indonesian Independence Day celebrated?
In Indonesia, Hari Merdeka or Independence Day is a day filled with festivities and celebrations. The preparations for Hari Merdeka begin well in advance. This tim of the year all of Indonesia seems to be draped in red and white, the colors of its flag.
In the run up to the celebrations, malls and the fences around the presidential building is adorned with red and white buntings. The city of Jakarta wears an air of festivity and the area between Jl. Thamrin and Jl. Sudirman is done up with unique decorations that reflect the spirit of independence. Neighborhood associations arrange kerja bakti or community service which includes cleaning the residential areas. The residents are also requested host flags for a set duration of time. Finally, on the eve of Independence Day, the President delivers addresses the nation.
These preparations culminate into the grand celebrations of the Independence Day that usually begins with flag hoisting ceremony in the presidential place. High school students chosen from across the country for their marching skills, put up a colorful show while the Indonesianflag hoisted. This is followed by parades and fun-filled activities for the public. These include as Krupuk (shrimp chips) eating, bike decorating, and cooking contests. One of the popular games played on this day is Panjat Pinang in which participants climb the greased trunk Areca palm tree.