Solo, October 28, 2024 – The Europe Today: In a powerful tribute to Indonesia’s national identity and history, the Keraton (Royal Palace) of the Surakarta Sunanate unfurled a kilometer-long Indonesian Red and White flag on Monday to commemorate the 96th Youth Pledge Day.
Koes Moertiyah Wandansari, Chair of the Surakarta Keraton Customs Council and inspector of the ceremony, described the grand display, with the flag stretching along the Baluwarti area surrounding the royal palace. School students served as flag bearers, symbolizing the palace’s mission to instill respect for the national flag and reinforce the significance of Indonesia’s youth in safeguarding national unity.
“Our main mission is to inspire younger generations to honor and protect the Red and White Flag, as it is the symbol of the Unitary Republic of Indonesia,” Wandansari stated. The event also sought to deepen public appreciation for Indonesia’s rich historical heritage, underscoring the flag’s historical roots in the traditional banners of the Surakarta Sunanate and the Majapahit Kingdom.
Wandansari urged citizens, especially leaders and government officials, to stay connected with Indonesia’s historical legacy. This year marks the first Youth Pledge Day ceremony at the Surakarta Keraton, and Wandansari expressed her hope to establish it as an annual tradition. “God willing, this ceremony will be held every year alongside the Indonesian Keraton Festival. We intend to bring this flag to every ceremony and festival,” she remarked.
The ceremony at the Kori Kamandungan Hall attracted hundreds, including students, Surakarta Sunanate royal servants, local officials, soldiers, and police officers, celebrating Indonesia’s enduring spirit of unity and national pride.
