1,000 Indonesians with Disabilities Set MURI Record Reading Proclamation in Sign Language

Yogyakarta, Indonesia – A remarkable event unfolded in the heart of Yogyakarta as 1,000 individuals with disabilities collectively recited the Proclamation of Independence of the Republic of Indonesia using sign language. This powerful display, held at the Zero Kilometer Point, not only set a new record recognized by the Museum Rekor Indonesia (Muri) but also carried a profound message about equality and the integral role of people with disabilities in the nation's fabric.

Vice Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, KGPAA Paku Alam X, lauded the initiative, stating, "Today we witness the reading of the proclamation text using sign language by a thousand people with disabilities. Of course, this is an initiative that is very worthy of our collective appreciation." He emphasized that the record-breaking achievement was secondary to the significant message conveyed through the recitation of one of Indonesia's most historic texts.

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Today we witness the reading of the proclamation text using sign language by a thousand people with disabilities. Of course, this is an initiative that is very worthy of our collective appreciation.

Paku Alam X elaborated that the act of presenting the proclamation through sign language transcended a mere translation of words into gestures. It served as a powerful demonstration that national values, the spirit of independence, and the opportunity for participation in collective life belong to all citizens without exception. "However, what is emphasized is that national values, the spirit of independence, and the space for participation in collective life must be accessible to all citizens without exception," he stated.

The presence of 1,000 individuals with disabilities in a public space like Yogyakarta added significant meaning as the nation approaches the 81st anniversary of its Independence. The event reframed the concept of independence, highlighting it not just as freedom from colonial rule but as the opening of equal opportunities for every citizen. The use of sign language acted as a bridge, making the national message more inclusive and allowing the spirit of the proclamation to be celebrated collectively through visual expression.

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However, what is emphasized is that national values, the spirit of independence, and the space for participation in collective life must be accessible to all citizens without exception.