Independence Day celebration in Indonesia took on a special meaning this year under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership. The State Palace invited 60 small business vendors to participate, with all their products purchased by the palace to serve guests, 80 percent of whom were members of the public. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude and joy as vendors like Wahyu, who sells traditional kue apem cakes, expressed their happiness at being a part of the celebration. Another vendor, selling es doger, was thrilled to step inside the State Palace for the first time, describing the experience as grand and festive.
In a unique gesture, the Palace invited micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to provide 30,000 portions of food and drinks free of charge to the public at three different locations on the palace grounds. Visitors had the rare opportunity to explore the State Palace up close, with many expressing their amazement at the accessibility of the central courtyard for photos and casual entry, thanks to the Palace’s newfound openness under President Prabowo. One attendee even praised the Presidential Security Forces for maintaining a secure yet welcoming environment during the celebration.
This year’s Independence Day commemoration was not just a festival for the people, but a symbol of unity and inclusivity, bringing together government officials, ordinary citizens, and small street vendors in a shared space of celebration. It was a momentous occasion that highlighted Indonesia’s spirit of togetherness and showcased the Palace’s commitment to embracing all members of society.
