Tomorrow, Indonesia will commemorate the 74th Independence Day. Every year, there are traditions from August 1 to August 31. This tradition started from 74 years ago until today. Here are some traditions that are always done proudly from year to year
Flying the National Flag
Starting on August 1, throughout the country, in every home and office, it was raised
National Flag. In addition, also added red and white trinkets like pennants, spiky bamboo, red and white cloth, and various other decorations.
Tirakatan Night
In almost all islands of Java and parts of outside Java, a Tirakatan event was held on the date August 16 night. This event was held as an expression of gratitude for independence of Indonesia. Tirakatan is usually held in every Neighborhood Association (RT). Citizens gathered, pray together, witness the appearance of children and residents (usually dances, choirs voice, or puppet appearance) and eating together.
Flag-raising Ceremony
On August 17, a flag-raising ceremony was held in all parts of Indonesia. Ceremony there are those that are officially held by the government, there are also those that are held by the community. When flag-raising ceremony was held by the government, one of which was in a state palace broadcast live through television. This ceremony has its own charm, because of the presence of the heirloom troops (paskibraka) whose members consists of the best High School students selected every year. While the flag-raising ceremony that was held by the community, also very interesting, because it has its own uniqueness. This ceremony is held at the summit the highest mountain, below sea level, in the sand sea, and in other exotic places.
Agustusan Contest
This contest is the most lively and the most awaited by people in various area. Various types of competitions are held throughout the month of August, both in offices government / private sector, or even in the villages. There are 4 types of competitions that are most often held and have a noble meaning behind them.
- Sack race. Sack racing reminds of the pain of colonialism, especially during the Japanese era. During the Japanese occupation, the Indonesian population was like that poor to the point of being unable to buy clothing. Any gunny sack used instead.
- Crackers eating competition. Usually the participants compete to finish the crackers has been hung, how to eat directly using the mouth and not tied hands to the back. This also illustrates how food difficulties at the time colonialism.
- Tug of war. The tug-of-war competition has its own meaning. Not just a fight of strength, but also attach importance to a compact team to achieve victory. Through tug of war, the participants indirectly learn regarding mutual cooperation, togetherness, and solidarity.
- Areca climbing competition. Same is the case with a tug of war contest, usually a race. Areca climbing is not done individually. But done by a team consisting more than two people to get a gift on a tree, bamboo or wood soars high. Long ago, areca climbing was held as as entertainment during important celebrations of the Dutch colonizers in Indonesian territory, such as weddings. Well, at that time the natives were competing to get the hanged prize on the pinnacle tree.
That’s a piece of the story of a unique tradition in Indonesia. Other than the explanation above, for sure there are still so many traditions that cannot be mentioned one by one. Come on guys, how about the unique tradition of celebrating August 17 in your own area? Feel free to share your photos / videos and experience here
Best regards, Brian
! Salam merdeka !!
