Thousands of kilometres away from their homeland, the Indonesian people and diaspora in Hungary continue to uphold their strong sense of nationalism. To commemorate the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Budapest sought to bring the authentic spirit of Indonesia’s annual “17 Agustusan” (Independence Day) celebration to the heart of Central Europe.
Although the setting and venue were certainly different—making iconic competitions such as panjat pinang (greased pole climbing) and other traditional physical games impossible to organise—the warmth of togetherness and the festive atmosphere that characterises Indonesia’s Independence Day celebrations remained strongly felt throughout the entire series of events.
A series of activities and festivities: Sports, traditional games, and camaraderie
The celebration began with a series of competitions and friendly matches involving all members of the Indonesian community in Hungary.
- 18 July 2026: The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Budapest officially kicked off the celebrations by organising friendly badminton and table tennis matches at the Hodos Tamás Badminton Hall in Budapest.
- 25 August 2026: The festivities continued with various exciting competitions, including darts, gaple (Indonesian dominoes), chess, ball juggling, and an Indonesian-themed photography contest.
The competitions became even more memorable as the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Mrs. Penny D. Herasati, actively participated in and competed in every event. Her enthusiasm inspired participants and fostered a warm sense of camaraderie among embassy staff, Indonesian nationals, and the Indonesian diaspora.
The solemn 17 August Flag Hoisting ceremony: Traditional attire and the Tumpengan tradition
The highlight of the Independence Day celebration took place on 17 August 2026, with a solemn and meaningful Flag Hoisting Ceremony held at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Budapest. The ceremony was attended by members of the Indonesian community residing across Hungary.
The Flag Hoisting Team (Paskibra)
Prior to the ceremony, the Embassy invited Indonesian youth in Hungary to volunteer as members of the Flag Hoisting Team (Paskibra). Following a selection process, three participants were appointed as the main team, while another three served as reserve members to accommodate operational requirements.
A unique display of Indonesia’s cultural diversity
One distinctive feature of the ceremony was that all ceremony officials wore traditional attire representing different regions of Indonesia, showcasing the nation’s rich cultural diversity abroad. Guests and participants also attended wearing their own regional traditional costumes or batik, creating a vibrant and colourful atmosphere.
Celebration and a taste of home
Following the ceremony, the celebration continued with the traditional tumpengan ceremony, featuring the symbolic cutting of nasi tumpeng (cone-shaped yellow rice). The meal was accompanied by a variety of traditional side dishes, including chicken, beef, tofu, tempeh, fried potatoes, and assorted vegetables. Sharing tumpeng together in a foreign country not only marked a moment of gratitude but also offered a comforting reminder of the traditions and flavours of home.
Pesta Rakyat (22 August): From the community, by the community, and for the community
The festivities continued on 22 August 2026, with a Pesta Rakyat (People’s Festival). The entertainment stage featured a variety of Indonesian traditional dance performances and musical presentations. All performances were prepared and presented independently by members of the Indonesian community in Hungary, reflecting the spirit of “from the community, by the community, and for the community” while strengthening friendship and solidarity.
Remembering the meaning of independence
This series of celebrations served as a reminder that Indonesia’s independence, proclaimed on 17 August 1945, was not granted freely but was achieved through a long and difficult struggle against Dutch colonial rule. Through the sacrifices, determination, and unwavering spirit of the nation’s heroes and founding fathers, Indonesia ultimately emerged as a free, united, and sovereign nation.
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