East Java Governor Invites Children Who Saluted Flag From Outside Office

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa extended a special invitation to a group of children who showed their patriotism from outside the East Java Governor's office during the recent Independence Day ceremony. The governor was moved by photos and videos of the children standing at attention and saluting the Indonesian flag as it was raised, despite being unable to join the official ceremony inside.

"Seeing these children salute when the Red and White flag was raised, my heart was touched. This is a simple example, but it has great meaning. There is love for the homeland growing from our next generation," Khofifah stated in Surabaya on Wednesday. She acknowledged that limited capacity prevented many citizens from attending the ceremony within the Grahadi building, but emphasized that this did not diminish the children's spirit.

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Seeing these children salute when the Red and White flag was raised, my heart was touched. This is a simple example, but it has great meaning. There is love for the homeland growing from our next generation.

The children's spontaneous actions, demonstrating nationalism through simple gestures without formal instruction, captured attention. In response, Khofifah invited them and their families to a special event titled "Strong Indonesian Great Children." The celebration included dozens of children from various backgrounds, such as Adeeva Zaida Humairah, Shylo, Steward, Swaggart, and Eza, along with orphans, children from rehabilitation centers, and those from a Quranic study group.

Khofifah believes that introducing nationalism to children should involve experiences close to their daily lives, rather than solely through formal and rigid activities. The event featured entertainment like magic shows, storytelling, and singing, alongside a tour of the Governor's office. "They have set a very good example. Hopefully, their spirit will inspire other children in East Java. I have also prepared T-shirts for the children to celebrate Indonesia's Independence Day with the spirit of '45," Khofifah added.

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They have set a very good example. Hopefully, their spirit will inspire other children in East Java. I have also prepared T-shirts for the children to celebrate Indonesia's Independence Day with the spirit of '45.