The Indonesian government plans to designate Monday, 18 August 2025, as an additional national holiday in conjunction with the 80th anniversary of the country’s independence.
The announcement was made by Deputy Minister of State Secretary, Juri Ardiantoro, who described the move as a celebratory gesture for the public.
Minister of State Secretary, Prasetyo Hadi, confirmed that the Joint Ministerial Decree (SKB) to formalise the new holiday will be issued shortly. “Well, insha’Allah, within the next one or two days, we will inform the public about the SKB regarding the holiday on the 18th,” said Prasetyo after a meeting at the Presidential Palace Complex on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.
President Prabowo Subianto decided after consultations with several ministers. One of the main considerations was that the 80th Independence Day, which falls on Sunday, 17 August 2025, coincides with the weekend.
“He also felt that since August 17 happens to fall on a Sunday, and after considering input from several ministers, he decided to declare August 18 a holiday,” Prasetyo explained.
Juri Ardiantoro noted that this additional holiday aims to allow citizens more time to participate in local celebrations, such as carnivals and community events. “This holiday is expected to provide an opportunity for the public to hold carnivals and community festivals without being rushed by work or school activities,” he stated.
Although the holiday has not yet been officially recorded in the SKB of the Three Ministers, it is anticipated to become part of the national calendar shortly. The measure reflects the government’s intention to expand public involvement in commemorative activities and to reinforce the spirit of nationalism.
Full Schedule of Independence Month Events for August 2025
To mark Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, a comprehensive series of official events will take place throughout August 2025. These activities are intended to honour the nation’s history, pay tribute to heroes, and promote unity.
The commemorations begin on the evening of Thursday, 1 August, with a National Prayer Ceremony held at the Proclamation Monument in Jakarta. This spiritual gathering marks the start of the month-long agenda.
On Tuesday, 13 August, the Republic of Indonesia Honorary Award Ceremony will recognise individuals, groups, and institutions that have made notable contributions to the nation in various sectors.
On Thursday, 15 August, the President will deliver the State Address during a joint session of the House of Representatives (DPR) and the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), outlining the government’s achievements and future direction.
The following morning, at midnight WIB on Friday, 16 August, a National Reflection and Pilgrimage will be held at Kalibata National Heroes Cemetery to honour those who sacrificed for independence.
Saturday, 17 August, will host two key national events: the Inauguration of the Flag-Raising Troop (Paskibraka) and the Proclamation Ceremony, both held at the Merdeka Palace with attendance from the President, Vice President, and other state officials.
Subject to the forthcoming SKB, Sunday, 18 August, will be observed as an additional national holiday, encouraging community-level celebrations across the country, from neighbourhoods and villages to cities and provinces.
The month’s celebrations will conclude on Sunday, 24 August, with the Merdeka Run 8.0 Kilometre, a public running event symbolising national resilience and the spirit of unity through physical wellbeing.
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