Freedom Night Showcases Thousands of Creative Talents for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

Jakarta buzzed with creativity and national pride as Indonesia marked its 81st Independence Day on August 17, 2026. The "Malam Merdeka" (Freedom Night) event transformed the National Monument (Monas) to the Hotel Indonesia roundabout into a vibrant showcase of art, culture, and technology. Thousands of creative economy professionals participated in the festivities, which were organized as per President Prabowo Subianto's directive to foster national unity.

Minister of Creative Economy/Head of the Creative Economy Agency, Teuku Riefky Harsya, stated the celebration aimed to remember the nation's journey, strengthen togetherness, and emphasize Indonesia's unity. "This year's commemoration of independence is a space to remember the nation's journey, strengthen togetherness, and convey the message that Indonesia is one," Riefky said during a press conference.

The event also served as a moment of solidarity, with Riefky expressing deep condolences for those affected by recent earthquakes in Nusa Tenggara Timur and Sumatera Utara. He assured that the government was praying for the disaster victims. The celebrations were designed not just for entertainment but also to reinforce unity, care, and mutual cooperation, acknowledging the nation's challenges.

Collaborating with several ministries and the Jakarta provincial government, the Ministry of Creative Economy coordinated four main attractions: an immersive installation, video mapping at Monas, a parade of decorated vehicles, and a drone show. These activities blended creativity and technology, engaging thousands of talents from various creative sub-sectors, including design, fashion, culinary arts, music, performing arts, digital content, and new technologies. The immersive installation, with interactive elements like an image generator and a wishing wall, allowed visitors to become part of Indonesia's historical narrative.