by Dames Alexander Sinaga

JAKARTA, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Under bright sunlight on Sunday, streets across Indonesia were filled with people waving national flags or dressed in red and white, as the country celebrated its 80th Independence Day.

In a neighborhood in eastern Jakarta, residents gathered in an open space for a flag-raising ceremony, followed by parades, music, food, and traditional games.

Fransiska Sulistyo, a 30-year-old housewife, brought her eight-month-old son to the festival for the first time.

"It's a happy day. I'm introducing my toddler to how we celebrate Independence Day, and I think he really enjoys the atmosphere," she said with a smile.

Families spread out tents and picnic mats on the grass, savoring the holiday spirit. For many, the day carried deep meaning.

"Indonesia, my country, is a blessing. It is important to preserve this homeland, protect it, protect its people and respect its existence," said Muhammad Aqil, a 58-year-old retired army soldier. "This is always a beautiful occasion, especially the march by the people to express their love for this country."

In central Jakarta, helicopters carried massive red-and-white flags across the sky while combat aircraft performed formation flights, commemorating the nation's independence. The display passed over the Merdeka Palace, where President Prabowo Subianto's administration opened the gates to thousands of citizens for what was billed as the largest Independence Day celebration ever held at the palace.

The ceremony drew thousands of guests, including high-ranking officials, former presidents Joko Widodo and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and foreign envoys, who applauded the aerial performances.

Leading the national flag-raising ceremony for the first time since taking office last year, Prabowo wore a traditional white outfit paired with a songkok, a hat also common in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. Other officials and guests also embraced traditional attire for the occasion.

This year's flag-raising team featured 76 students representing all 38 provinces. Among them, Bianca Alessia Lantang from Tomohon in North Sulawesi was selected to carry the national flag.

After the ceremony, organizers offered street competitions, live entertainment, and free culinary treats from micro, small, and medium enterprises.

The day was set to conclude with a fireworks display and the United Independence Carnival, showcasing decorated floats from government ministries and agencies.