Jakarta, August 17, 2026 – Minister of Creative Economy/Head of the Creative Economy Agency (Ekraf), Teuku Riefky Harsya, attended the ceremony commemorating the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, led by President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, on Monday (August 17). In a solemn atmosphere, the ceremony also featured prayers and a tribute to communities affected by disasters in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Sumatra, and several other regions of Indonesia during the moment of silence.
President Prabowo Subianto during the Ceremony Commemorating the Proclamation of Independence of the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday (August 17, 2026).
“Ladies and gentlemen, let us observe a moment of silence to commemorate the souls and services of the heroes of our nation's independence who sacrificed their lives and devoted themselves to the independence and honor of the Indonesian nation, and to pray for our fellow citizens affected by natural disasters in Sumatra, NTT, and other regions of Indonesia. Let us begin the moment of silence,” said President Prabowo.
In a video presentation outlining the nation's vision, President Prabowo emphasized that unity and justice are the fundamental foundations for the nation's progress.
“Pancasila has united the Indonesian nation for 81 years. We prove today that we remain an intact nation, a united nation, a strong nation because of its unity, a prosperous nation because of its justice, and a great nation because of its humanity. Let us realize an Indonesia that is just, prosperous, sovereign, and dignified. Merdeka!” added President Prabowo.
In line with this message, Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, emphasized that the commemoration of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia serves as a moment of reflection for the Ministry of Creative Economy to unite solidarity with sensitivity to the various challenges faced by communities across Indonesia. Independence is also interpreted as a call to ignite the spirit of nationalism through tangible works, innovation, and creativity that directly contribute to progress.
“True independence is reflected in our ability to deliver tangible solutions to the community, while continuously giving meaning to independence by transforming creativity for the benefit of society,” said Teuku Riefky.
Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar, who also attended the ceremony, added that the creative economy plays a strategic role in creating employment opportunities and promoting increased non-oil and gas exports and investment. Therefore, the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia serves as an opportunity to further strengthen the creative economy as a sector that grows from the cultural wealth, traditions, and creativity of the Nusantara.
“With the spirit of independence, let us build the creative economy as a new engine of national economic growth capable of strengthening sovereignty and improving the welfare of the people,” added Irene Umar.
In addition to attending the morning ceremony commemorating the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, the leadership of the Ministry of Creative Economy is also scheduled to attend the Ceremony for the Lowering of the Sang Merah Putih Flag at the Merdeka Palace in the afternoon.
Today's commemoration also invites all members of the public to strengthen unity, care, and mutual cooperation. Through a spirit of togetherness without boundaries and cross-institutional synergy, this series of events is presented to deliver a tangible impact on the people's economy.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Head of the Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
