Royal carriage carries Indonesia's flag and proclamation text to palace

The royal carriage Garuda Prabayaksa arrived at Merdeka Palace carrying the nation's sacred flag and the text of the proclamation, marking a significant moment in the lead-up to Indonesia's 81st Independence Day celebrations. The procession, known as the Merah Putih kirab, saw the historic items transported from the National Monument (Monas) to the palace.

Members of the Purna Paskibraka Duta Pancasila, a group of distinguished flag raisers, were entrusted with carrying the precious cargo. Bianca Sultana Najwa, a student from SMAN 82 Jakarta, carried the sacred flag, while Aliah Sakira, a student from SMAN 14 Makassar, carried the text of the proclamation. Both students rode in the Garuda Prabayaksa carriage as part of the parade.

The Garuda Prabayaksa carriage itself is a symbol of national pride, having been custom-built in Sleman, Yogyakarta, to commemorate Indonesia's 80th anniversary in 2025. Its name, derived from "Praba" and "yaksa," signifies a "great light" or "bright light," reflecting the nation's aspirations. The carriage was escorted by a significant contingent, including 45 military police motorcyclists, the Pelopor Cendrawasih Police Academy drum corps, 114 Ronggolawe Cavalry Regiment members, and 78 Pasukan Kerajaan Nusantara.

The ceremonial handover of the flag and proclamation text took place earlier in the National Monument's Hall of Independence. This kirab is a key part of the commemoration of the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's Independence, under the theme "Indonesia Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous." Citizens gathered early to witness the events, underscoring the deep national significance of the occasion.