Indonesia celebrates 81st independence anniversary

On August 17, Indonesia marked its 81st Independence Day with official celebrations led by President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Central Jakarta.

The 81st Independence Day was celebrated under the official theme "Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia”. Following the flag-hoisting ceremony, an 81-aircraft flypast featuring Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30, and F-16 fighter jets performed over the skies of Merdeka Palace. Amid the national festivities, President Prabowo led a moment of silence dedicated to national heroes and requested prayers for those affected by a recent major earthquake off Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara.