Over 150,000 People Join Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day Central Celebration

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian government recorded more than 150,000 people gathering around the Merdeka Palace and the National Monument in Jakarta to take part in central events marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence on Monday, August 17, 2026. The government said public enthusiasm was evident from the early morning hours through the evening, making this year’s celebration a “space for togetherness for people from all corners [of the country].”

Indonesia's Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya in a written statement recently said that people had begun arriving and queuing as early as 2:00 a.m. local time. Wearing a variety of traditional outfits, they came not only from Jakarta but also from different parts of Indonesia to witness the Independence Day commemoration firsthand at Merdeka Palace.

The enthusiasm continued throughout the series of Independence Day events. From the Commemoration Ceremony of the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence to the Flag-Lowering Ceremony at Merdeka Palace, members of the public took part in the festivities marking the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s independence.

A "people's festival" in Merdeka Square, where the National Monument is located, also attracted residents eager to celebrate Independence Day together. The event featured hundreds of thousands of free meals provided by thousands of vendors, along with various competitions.

"More than 150,000 people attended the series of events commemorating the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence and the lowering of the Red-and-White Flag in the Merdeka Palace area, as well as the public performances at Monas," Teddy said, as quoted from the Presidential Secretariat's website.

The celebrations concluded in the evening with an event called “Malam Merdeka” (Independence Night). It featured a carnival with decorated vehicles from various government agencies traveling through central Jakarta.

In addition, various cultural performances were staged, including representatives from the Pagelaran Sabang Merauke performing arts production. A music concert also featured several prominent Indonesian artists, including Wika Salim and NDX AKA.