August is synonymous with the celebration of the independence of the Republic of Indonesia. Independence Day, which falls on the 17th of August every year, is always greeted enthusiastically by the people of Indonesia. Apart from flag ceremonies, competitions, and decorating residences with various 17th-esque knick-knacks, there are many unique traditions for celebrating the 17th of August in Indonesia to enliven this annual moment. Check out some of the unique traditions in various regions to enliven the 17th of August celebration which are summarized from various sources.
Tirakatan, Yogyakarta
Tirakatan is held on the night before the 17th of August and is a thanksgiving activity that has been carried out by Yogyakarta residents since post-independence until now. On the night of Tirakatan, the community gathers to commemorate the services of the heroes, pray together, then continue with eating together.
Jampana Parade, Bandung
The Jampana Parade in Bandung is a unique tradition of celebrating the Republic of Indonesia’s anniversary, whereby crops are showcased accompanied by music and Sundanese art dances. This tradition is also a manifestation of gratitude for the community’s harvest, with “Jampana” meaning “stretch” in Sundanese. Dozens of stretchers are carried in this parade, filled with a variety of agricultural products, West Javanese specialties, and handicrafts from the local community.
Peresean, Lombok
Peresean is a traditional art of the Sasak people of Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, which involves two men fighting with rattan sticks and shields made of thick buffalo skin. This fight lasts for five rounds and is considered finished if one of the fighters draws blood. The winner is the fighter who is not injured and it is the main attraction for tourists visiting Lombok.
Rowing Competition, Banjarmasin
In Banjarmasin, the people have a unique tradition of commemorating the Republic of Indonesia’s independence day by having a dragon boat rowing competition which is regularly held on the Martapura River. This competition has been held since 1924 and uses a boat with a dragon head icon at the end, so it is known as a dragon boat rowing race.
Telok Abang, Palembang
If you visit Palembang during Indonesia’s Independence Day celebrations, you will find a unique tradition called Telok Abang. This tradition is only found in Palembang once a year before August 17th. The name “Telok Abang” comes from the Palembang language; telok meaning eggs and abang meaning red. Telok Abang itself is a boiled egg whose shell is colored red, then stuck in children’s toys such as wooden or cork cars and boats.
Pacu Kude, Aceh
Have you ever heard of tradition pacu kude? This tradition originates from Aceh which is believed to have taken place before Indonesia’s independence, namely in 1850. Quoted from Indonesia Travel, the horse used in this race is also a cross between an Australian horse and a Gayo horse. Pacu kude itself is considered a symbol of the people’s struggle to gain independence. This is what finally makes the tradition of racing the kude carried out every year to welcome the Indonesian Independence Day. This kude race tradition has also been designated as an Indonesian Intangible Cultural Heritage (WBTB Indonesia), after being submitted in 2016.
These are some unique traditions in various regions held to welcome Indonesia’s Independence Day. CocoClubby can’t wait to welcome the 17th celebration, right? Don’t forget to refresh yourself by drinking CocoClub! Made from selected coconut water with pieces of nata de coco, CocoClub is ready to accompany all your activities!
