Independence Day celebration in Indonesia took on a special meaning this year under President Prabowo Subianto. The event saw about 60 small business vendors being invited to the State Palace, where all their goods were purchased and served to guests, 80 percent of whom were members of the public. This gesture was met with gratitude and excitement from vendors like Wahyu, a seller of traditional kue apem cakes, and an es doger vendor who was visiting the Palace for the first time.
In a unique move, the Palace invited 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to provide 30,000 portions of food and drinks to the public free of charge. The vendors were stationed at various points around the Palace, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the State Palace up close. Attendees, like @ijoeel who shared his experience on Instagram, were impressed by the open and festive atmosphere at the Palace during the celebration.
This year’s Independence Day commemoration not only celebrated the people but also highlighted the Palace’s new spirit of openness under President Prabowo. It was a symbol of unity where officials, ordinary citizens, and small street vendors came together in a shared space. The event was a success thanks to the efforts of everyone involved, including the Presidential Security Forces (Paspampres) who ensured both security and hospitality.
Overall, this year’s Independence Day celebration at the State Palace was a testament to unity and inclusivity, reflecting a new era of openness and engagement under President Prabowo.
