History, Philosophy, and Unique Competition of Indonesian Independence Day

Indonesian nolimite – Every August 17, the atmosphere of Indonesia feels more lively. The Red and White Flag fluttered in every corner, the children played the competition, and the community was full of enthusiasm to welcome the Indonesian Independence Day.

But did you know, many of the August 17 traditions and competitions turned out to have a long history and symbolic meaning that we rarely realize? Come on, we discuss more deeply!

A brief history of Indonesian independence

Before talking about the race, let’s flash back to history August 17, 1945.

Launching the National Archives of the Republic of Indonesia (ANRI), the text of the proclamation read by Soekarno on Jalan Pegangsaan Timur No. 56 Jakarta became the official milestone of Indonesia’s birth. The incident marked the end of the long colonialism, as well as the beginning of the struggle to maintain independence.

Since then, every August 17 is commemorated not only with state ceremonies, but also with folk traditions full of joy.

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The tradition of the August 17 race and its philosophy

Climbing areca: from Dutch entertainment to a symbol of struggle

Who doesn’t know the areca climbing competitions? This slippery pole full of gifts is an icon every celebration of the 17s.

According to Historia.id, the tradition of climbing betel nuts was brought by the Dutch since the 17th century. In the past, only elite entertainment, now the people made it a symbol of struggle: a prize at the peak symbolizes the ideals of independence, and participants who push each other into a picture of mutual cooperation.

Karapan Cow: Madura Culture with Red and White Shades

In Madura, the 17s are synonymous with cattle. The runway running fast in the arena full of cheers of the audience.

Launching Kompas.com, this tradition has existed since the 18th century and is now often combined with the celebration of independence. The arena is filled with the red and white flag, making the cow a symbol of local patriotism.

Costume Carnival Recycling: Creativity without limits

If in a big city, August 17 is enlivened by a costume carnival. Interestingly, many participants make costumes from recycled items: plastic bottles, cardboard, to newspaper.

“This is not just a parade, but the message that limitations can be creativity,” said a teacher in Yogyakarta. The philosophy, similar to the warrior who used to fight the invaders only with sharp bamboo.

Sack racing, tug of war, and other folk competitions

In addition to large competitions, there are also sack racing, tug of war, eating crackers, to clogs competitions.

According to the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, all of these competitions practice cohesiveness, togetherness, and sportsmanship. Values ​​that are in line with the spirit of independence: united, cooperate, and never give up.

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The meaning of the celebration of August 17 for the younger generation

For the current generation, the 17s are not just entertainment. Each competition stores the philosophy of struggle: hard work, mutual cooperation, to the spirit of unyielding.

Launching the Ministry of Education and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia, maintaining this tradition is important so that the spirit of the proclamation remains alive across generations.

The celebration of August 17 is always lively, but behind laughter there is a deep meaning. From climbing areca to carnival, all teach us the meaning of struggle, togetherness, and creativity.

So, when participating in a sack race or encouraging the areca climbing teams, remember it is not just entertainment, but the way we celebrate and maintain the meaning of independence.

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