Independence Day Ceremony in Ankara: Reflecting the Diversity and Spirit of Independence

Thepresidentpost.id - An atmosphere of diversity and spirit of independence filled the 78th Indonesian Independence Day commemoration held at the Indonesian Embassy in Ankara. The traditional and national attire worn by the ceremony's participants is proof of Indonesia's cultural diversity. The choir which performed national songs as well as a medley of regional songs added colour to the festivities.

In his speech, Ambassador Lalu Muhamad Iqbal spoke on the profound meaning of Indonesia's historical struggle which began a long time before the proclamation of independence in 1945. He reminded that Indonesia is made up of a diversity of peoples, religions, and languages. The Diversity is celebrated as a form of gratitude in the context of diversity over the independence that was achieved. He added that the young generation has a duty to continue the struggle of the departed heroes.

“Regarding the recommendation to wear national/regional attire in this ceremony, we wanted to display a different atmosphere through an emotional touch," explained the Police Attache in Ankara, Grand Commissioner Harviadhi Agung Pratama. The choir, composed of Indonesian students in traditional attire also served as reminder of Indonesia's cultural wealth.

The Embassy's flag raising troop numbering 17 members came from various regions in Turkey. The Turkish National Police's Elite Musical Corps, Polis Bondusu, took part by playing the Indonesian National Anthem, Moment of Silence, and Andhika Bayangkari. The Commander of the Musical Corps, expressed his honour at participating in the commemoration and praised Indonesians for their friendliness.

The ceremony progressed in solemn manner and was attended by hundreds of Indonesian citizens and community members in Turkey. The embassy also took this opportunity to present awards to former local staff who served the embassy for 33 years, Ms. Aliye Aktas. A number of the best local staff, members of the Indonesian Citizens' Protection Task Force, and the Indonesian Students Association in Turkey also received awards from Ambassador Iqbal.

In addition to the ceremony, the Indonesian community and diaspora in Turkey also enjoyed a show performed by artists from the capital, a quiz with a Turkey-Indonesia round-trip ticket as prize and an Indonesian culinary bazaar. The event was attended by 1000 Indonesian citizens and diaspora which packed the venue.

The commemoration of Indonesian independence at the Embassy in Ankara was not merely a ceremony, but a celebration which combined cultural diversity and the spirit of struggle, reflecting the greatness and unity of the Indonesian nation.