Across Indonesia, the spirit of unity and community was on full display as cities and organizations marked the 80th Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia with a variety of events that went far beyond mere ceremony. From the bustling streets of Bandung to the vibrant neighborhoods of Yogyakarta and the industrious heart of Bekasi, leaders and citizens alike seized the moment to reinforce social bonds, celebrate creativity, and encourage civic responsibility amid both festivity and underlying challenges.
In Bandung, recent protests in several city areas prompted a heartfelt call for unity and peace from Erwin, the Deputy Mayor. On August 31, 2025, Erwin addressed the public with a message that resonated well beyond the city’s boundaries. He urged all citizens to maintain peace, security, and order, stressing that these were not just the government’s domain but a shared responsibility. “I want to invite all of us to maintain peace, unity, and wisdom so that Bandung remains conducive,” Erwin said, according to local reports.
His message was clear: keeping Bandung safe and harmonious is a task for every resident. He cautioned against damaging public facilities or city assets, reminding everyone that such resources are communal property and must be safeguarded. “I really hope the community actively participates in keeping Bandung safe. Let’s not let public facilities or assets be damaged. Let’s take care of them together,” he added. The deputy mayor also invoked the principles of Maqasid Shariah—protecting intellect, soul, and property—as guiding values for navigating sensitive times. He warned against falling for hoaxes or divisive narratives, urging residents to think clearly and preserve brotherhood.
Erwin’s appeal was deeply rooted in both civic and religious values. He cited the Qur’anic verse Al-Hujurat: 10, which emphasizes reconciliation and brotherhood: “Indeed, the believers are brothers. So make peace between your brothers and fear Allah so that you may receive mercy.” He concluded with a powerful reminder that choosing peace is the path favored by God, while violence and destruction only bring loss and regret. His hope was that all elements of society would continue to work hand-in-hand to keep Bandung not just safe, but prosperous for generations to come.
Meanwhile, in Yogyakarta, the air was filled with laughter, music, and the vibrant colors of traditional costumes as residents of Kampung Gandekan Lor, Kelurahan Pringgokusuman, Gedongtengen, celebrated Indonesia’s independence in their own unique way. On August 30, 2025, the local youth spearheaded a lively art performance event that transformed the neighborhood into a stage for talent and togetherness. The festivities drew the enthusiastic support of Deputy Mayor Wawan Harmawan, who attended in person and praised the creativity and community spirit on display.
“I really appreciate the initiative of the youth in Gandekan Lor. Through this event, we can see how the spirit of independence is not only realized in ceremonies but also in artistic and cultural expressions involving all levels of society. This is a real form of gotong royong (mutual cooperation) that characterizes the people of Yogyakarta,” Wawan stated at the event, as reported by Warta Jogja Kota.
The performances ranged from traditional dances performed by local children to heartfelt presentations by elderly women’s groups. The atmosphere was warm and inclusive, with residents of all ages participating from planning to execution. Wawan emphasized that such activities should serve as examples for other communities, highlighting the critical role of youth in shaping an inclusive and characterful city. “Youth are agents of change. If their energy can be directed towards positive things like this, a generation will be born that is not only creative but also cares about its environment. The city government will continue to support community-rooted activities like this,” he said.
Rifaldy Rizqi, the event’s organizing committee chair, explained that the art performance was about more than just celebrating independence. “Besides enlivening Independence Day, we designed this event so residents, especially the younger generation, could express their talents and creativity. We also want to foster self-confidence, togetherness, and, of course, strengthen the cultural identity in our environment,” Rifaldy told reporters. The event was a testament to the enduring strength of social solidarity and cultural pride in urban Yogyakarta, with preparations carried out collectively by youth groups, women’s groups, and community leaders. The celebration, filled with warmth and joy, demonstrated that commemorating independence can be a catalyst for reviving national values through arts, culture, and social unity.
Not to be outdone, the city of Bekasi saw a different but equally inspiring kind of gathering. On August 31, 2025, Perempuan Metal Bekasi—a women’s activist group under the auspices of KC FSPMI Bekasi—held a consolidation meeting and Independence Day celebration at the KC FSPMI Bekasi secretariat. The event, attended by around 200 participants from various women’s divisions and forums, was a blend of organizational training and spirited competitions. The goal? To build unity, foster sportsmanship, and inject fresh enthusiasm into the women’s movement within FSPMI Bekasi.
The competitions, which included oration, sarong relay, balloon relay, blindfolded face painting, and balloon dancing, might sound lighthearted, but their impact was profound. All participants were actively involved, and everyone left with a prize or a souvenir, thanks to the organizers and sponsors. Supriyatno, the Coordinator of Garda Metal Bekasi, lauded the women’s initiative and participation, noting that the event was not just about celebrating Independence Day but also about organizational consolidation and personal growth. “The activities today are not just about the Independence Day celebration with competitions, but also include organizational material and consolidation, so that when Bekasi women participate in an activity, they gain additional organizational insight,” he said, as reported by KPonline.
Ika Asih Hartati, Chairwoman of the Women’s Division, expressed her hope that women in Bekasi would remain active not only during ceremonial events but also in organizational actions, education, and other activities that advance the group’s mission. The event was a clear demonstration of how simple competitions can foster camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the emergence of new leaders among women activists.
Together, these three events—each with its unique flavor and focus—paint a vivid picture of Indonesia’s ongoing journey toward unity, creativity, and active citizenship. Whether through calls for peace amid protest, communal celebrations of art and tradition, or empowering women to take on larger organizational roles, the underlying message was unmistakable: Indonesia’s strength lies in its people’s willingness to come together, celebrate their shared heritage, and work collectively toward a better future for all.