Indonesia: Independence Day celebrations to occur nationwide Aug. 17

Event

Indonesia will celebrate its 77th Independence Day Aug. 17. The main ceremony will occur at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta from 09:45. Local and regional government offices will also host ceremonies in provincial and regency capitals. Restrictions will probably be in place near ceremony locations Aug. 17 and the preceding days due to event preparations.

Government office and business closures are likely Aug. 17. Increased security and localized traffic disruptions are probable nationwide, particularly near regency and provincial government buildings. Authorities will implement stringent security measures in Jakarta, especially near the Merdeka Palace and other event venues. Indonesian police will likely deploy additional personnel in high-risk areas, like the Papua region, due to possible security disturbances. Separatist groups in the Papua region have demonstrated around Independence Day in past years; authorities typically disperse protests in the area promptly. Clashes between demonstrators and police are possible during rallies; mass arrests may occur if security forces forcibly break up any protest or if activists resist any orders to disperse.

Advice

Plan for traffic disruptions near event sites, especially the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations Aug. 17. Consider avoiding official ceremonies, prominent cultural events, government buildings, and other crowded places due to possible security threats. Avoid any protests due to possible clashes. If violence occurs nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter at a safe nongovernmental building. Heed all official security and traffic advisories.