Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day celebration this year, under President Prabowo Subianto, took on a unique and inclusive character. Approximately 60 small business vendors were specially invited to participate, with all their products purchased by the State Palace and served to guests, the majority of whom were members of the public.
In a heartwarming gesture, vendors like Wahyu, who sells traditional kue apem cakes, and an es doger vendor, expressed their gratitude and joy for being part of the event. For many vendors, it was their first time visiting the State Palace, an experience they described as grand and festive, leaving them speechless with happiness. The Palace invited 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises to provide 30,000 portions of food and drinks free of charge to the public, stationed at strategic points within the Palace grounds.
Visitors were awed by the opportunity to get up close to the State Palace and witness the celebration firsthand. The openness of the Palace, normally restricted to the public, created a sense of wonder and excitement among attendees. One social media user even praised the Presidential Security Forces for their ability to maintain security while still allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere.
This year’s Independence Day celebration symbolized a new era of openness at the Palace under President Prabowo, where officials, ordinary citizens, and small street vendors all came together in a spirit of unity and shared celebration. It was not just a festival for the people, but a testament to the inclusive nature of the Palace under its current leadership.
