Indonesia: Independence Day celebrations to occur nationwide Aug. 17

Event

Indonesia will celebrate its 78th Independence Day Aug. 17. The main ceremony will occur at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta from 07:25. 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 also likely deploy additional personnel in high-risk areas, such as the Papua region, due to possible security disturbances. Separatist groups in Papua have demonstrated around Independence Day in past years; authorities typically disperse protests promptly. Clashes between demonstrators and police may occur during rallies; mass arrests are possible if security forces break up gatherings forcibly or 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. Exercise caution around 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.