Indonesian Parliament to Play Only National Songs at Joint Session to Ensure Solemnity

Indonesia's upcoming joint session of the MPR, DPR, and DPD in August will adopt a more solemn tone, with organizers deciding to play only national and regional songs. This move is intended to prevent a repeat of last year's incident where lawmakers danced to popular music, an act that sparked public backlash and contributed to protests later that month.

The organizing committee has reviewed the outcomes of the 2025 session to ensure this year's event is conducted with greater dignity. Mahyu Darma, head of the protocol, public relations, and media bureau of the DPD Secretariat General, stated that the evaluation led to the decision to avoid playing music that might incite dancing. The decorations for the venue will also be kept simple to reflect the solemnity and state nature of the occasion.

House Speaker Puan Maharani echoed this sentiment, promising a more solemn annual session for the MPR in 2026. She acknowledged the need for self-reflection and a greater focus on the agenda. While recognizing the public's right to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day with joy, Maharani explained that the dancing at the 2025 session was spontaneous and occurred after the President's speech concluded. She asserted that participants remained respectful during the official proceedings.

Approximately 1,200 participants are expected at the 2026 MPR session, including 732 members of the DPR and DPD, former presidents and vice presidents, cabinet members, and diplomatic guests. Additionally, President Prabowo Subianto has invited eight special guests who are beneficiaries of strategic government programs.