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About Indonesia Independence Day in Bali
17th of August is Indonesia’s National Independence Day, learn about the important proclamation day in Indonesia and how the proclamation if Indonesia traveled to Bali.
The Day of the Proclamation
17th of August is Indonesia’s National Independence Day, Friday, August 17, 1945 was the most historic day for all Indonesians, when Ir. Sukarno who later became Indonesia's first president proclaimed this- After being colonized under the Dutch’s for more than three hundred years and Japan for three and a half years, Indonesia finally achieved their freedom of becoming an independent nation. To honor this historical day of Indonesia’s independence day in Indonesia, each year on the 17th of August, is marked red in the calendar to respect the day. As for the festivity, independence days’ decoration in every corner is displayed, mainly in red and white representing Indonesia’s flag.
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Indonesia Independence Day History Entering Bali
A brief story on Indonesia’s independence day back in 1945, as Indonesia's territory is massive, communication and transportation were still very limited, consequently the proclamation message did not travel as fast. This include the regions in Bali and West Nusa Tenggara, being one of the many obstacles to the proclamation news, in addition, the public radio and communication equipment were destroyed by the Japanese troops who tried to block the proclamation of news from Jakarta.
The Balinese youth communities have learned and received the news of Indonesia’s Independence day through a secret communication with fellow Indonesian soldiers and youth on the island of Java. They then continued the news through the word of mouth to the people in the village and Bali island. Unfortunately, the good news that should have been a joyful one was not easy to believe. The people of Bali were in disbelief until its messenger, I Gusti Ketut Pudja, who attended the independence proclamation of Indonesia in Jakarta went back to the island to announce the victory.
- On the 21st of August 1945
The Japanese government in Bali finally announced that they had surrendered to allies in World War II. They also reported the existence of an independent Indonesian proclamation in Jakarta. - On the 23rd of August 1945
Ketut Pudja finally arrived in Bali and announced the Independence of Indonesia’s news at the City of the State. The news was welcomed by the raising of the Red and White flag for the first time in Bali land. - On the 24th of August 1945
Ketut Pudja proclaimed the status of Indonesia as a free and independent country from any colonizer
As for the rest of area in Bali such as Bangli, Klungkung, and Karangasem, the proclamation news arrived on the 1st of October 1945.
Independence Day Common Activities
Unlike in other provinces in Indonesia, the Balinese usually only decorate their homes in red and white decorations and raising flags in front of their houses. In Bali, everyone is welcomed to join the celebration including visitors or tourists.
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During the weeks leading up to the Indonesian Independence Day, you will see many of local students marching on the streets. Formally, Indonesians celebrate Independence Day by holding a flag ceremony at schools and official offices across the nation. After the flag ceremony, it is continued with a various celebratory activities including competitions, such as:
1. Environmental service
This service has been done not only during the independence day but is obligatory in many aspect of Indonesian’s live, in residences, villages, cities, which aim is not only serves to maintain environmental cleanliness, but also to strengthen the relationship between individuals in certain communities.
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2. Beach kites’ competition
One of Bali's best kite competition you might consider watching, is the one located in Padang Galak Beach.
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3. Climbing Competition
The games symbolizes cooperation, effort and patience to independence or victory
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4. Sack Race
To re-tell story of how during the colonizer occupation the Indonesians were not having enough money for basic needs such as clothes, that it was common to use burlap sacks as a substitute for clothing.
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5. Tug of war
The games reflect mutual cooperation and unity will bring victory and many other games.
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You will expect traffic jams on the streets during the celebration on the 17th of August because all Indonesians are on holiday and they commonly go out from their homes participate in the independence day celebrations.