Language/Indonesian/Culture/Indonesian-Independence-Day
Indonesian Independence Day, or Hari Kemerdekaan Indonesia, is a national holiday in Indonesia celebrated annually on August 17th. It commemorates Indonesia's proclamation of independence from the Netherlands on August 17, 1945.
History
Indonesia was colonized by the Dutch for over three centuries prior to its independence. During World War II, Japan captured the country and ruled it for three years. When Japan surrendered in August 1945, Indonesia declared independence. The proclamation of independence was read by Sukarno and Hatta, two of the most prominent figures in the Indonesian independence movement, who went on to become the country's first president and vice president, respectively.
The Indonesian flag, known as Bendera Merah Putih or the Red and White flag, was first flown on August 17, 1945. The flag symbolizes the Indonesian people's struggle for independence, with the white stripe representing purity and the red stripe representing courage.
Celebration
Indonesian Independence Day is celebrated throughout the country with great enthusiasm and patriotism. The celebrations begin several weeks before August 17 and include parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and cultural performances. Indonesians also participate in traditional games and competitions such as the Panjat Pinang, where teams attempt to climb a greased pole to win prizes.
On the morning of August 17, a major ceremony is held at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, which includes flag-raising, the singing of the national anthem, and speeches by government officials. In cities and towns across the country, people gather to watch military and civilian parades, listen to live music, and enjoy traditional food and snacks.
Vocabulary
Here are some Indonesian vocabulary words related to Independence Day:
Indonesian | Pronunciation | English |
---|---|---|
Hari Kemerdekaan Indonesia | ['hari kəmɛrdɛkaan indonɛsia] | Indonesian Independence Day |
Bendera Merah Putih | ['bɛndɛra mərah putih] | Red and White flag |
Sukarno | [soe'karno] | Sukarno |
Hatta | ['hatta] | Hatta |
Panjat Pinang | ['pandʒat 'pinaŋ] | Greasy pole climbing |
Conclusion
Indonesian Independence Day is an important holiday that showcases the country's rich history, culture, and national pride. Celebrating this day is an opportunity for Indonesians to reflect on their country's past struggles and achievements, as well as to come together in unity and patriotism.
I hope you found this lesson informative and interesting. Please join me in the next lesson of the Complete 0 to A1 Indonesian Course!
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