Celebrations underpin community spirit.: 18-08-2008
A community in Central Jakarta has celebrated Indonesia's independence from the Dutch by holding a unique ceremony.
Komunitas Proklamasi residents gathered in celebration of their country's independence wearing shorts, t-shirts and hats for the raising of the national flag – a far cry from the formal scenes elsewhere in the nation.
But as a local resident told the Jakarta Post, the event was spontaneous and moving, exemplifying the community spirit in the area.
"The flag ceremony was done spontaneously," she explained.
"We decorated the field yesterday. The choir only practiced once. But it's a good event because it creates a bond."
Another resident cited how neighbours recently helped each other rebuild their homes after a fire last year.
The fire destroyed 42 homes but they have since been re-built thanks to the community.
Travellers heading to the capital city with an interest in history may wish to visit Sunda Kelapa, the early 16th century trading post from which the Dutch began their domination of the country.