Independence Day celebration in Indonesia had a different vibe this year under President Prabowo Subianto. The State Palace specially invited around 60 small business vendors, who had all their products bought by the Palace to serve the guests, with 80 percent of them being members of the public. The vendors, like Wahyu selling traditional kue apem cakes, expressed their gratitude and happiness for being a part of the event. Another vendor selling es doger was delighted to step inside the State Palace for the first time and shared his joy at being a part of the grand and festive celebration.
In a special gesture this year, the Palace invited 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to serve 30,000 portions of food and drinks for free to the public at three different points within the Palace premises. Visitors had the rare opportunity to experience the State Palace up close, which left many in awe of the extraordinary experience. An attendee shared his excitement on Instagram, highlighting the usually restricted access to certain areas within the Palace and commending the Presidential Security Forces (Paspampres) for maintaining a secure yet welcoming environment.
The Independence Day celebration this year symbolized not only a people’s festival but also showcased the Palace’s new openness under President Prabowo. The event brought together officials, ordinary citizens, and small street vendors in a shared space of unity, highlighting a sense of togetherness and inclusivity.
