Indonesia is celebrating 80 years of independence from Dutch colonial rule, but the mood is not entirely celebratory as an unusual protest movement has emerged, with people across the country raising a cartoon pirate flag popularized by the Japanese anime series, One Piece.
The flag, featuring a skull and crossbones wearing a straw hat, has become a symbol of frustration with the government.
The flag’s adoption as a protest symbol is rooted in its association with themes of hope, freedom, and resistance against authoritarianism in the anime series.
In Indonesia, it has been used to express dissatisfaction with rising prices, difficulties in finding jobs, and perceived government incompetence.
Radityo Dharmaputra, a lecturer in international relations at Airlangga University, said the flag’s popularity reflects “growing dissatisfaction in society, even with all the so-called progress that the government has claimed”.
The protests are driven by various factors, including economic concerns and a sense of injustice.
Adi, a truck driver, has been flying the flag on his vehicle for three weeks, citing his disappointment with the government’s handling of issues such as the Kanjuruhan Stadium tragedy, which resulted in the deaths of 135 people. “I am disappointed by the lack of justice for the victims of Kanjuruhan,” Adi said. “Until now, we have received none of the restitution we were promised.”
The government has taken notice of the protests, with Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan, warning of “firm action” if the flag is flown on Independence Day.
Indonesia’s Deputy House Speaker, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, accused those flying the flag of attempting to divide the nation. However, some analysts believe the government’s response has backfired, drawing more attention to the protests.
Yohanes Sulaiman, a lecturer in international relations, said the government’s warnings were likely an attempt to clamp down on symbolic dissent. “Saying that the flag has the potential of breaking apart the nation is too much,” Sulaiman said. “It is hyperbolic and nobody takes it seriously.”
Ian Wilson, a lecturer in politics and security studies at Murdoch University, noted that the flag’s popularity demonstrates “sensitivity around perceptions of popularity” in the current government.
Amnesty International’s Usman Hamid condemned the government’s response, saying the raids and questioning of citizens were “a flagrant violation of the right to freedom of expression”.
Hamid urged authorities to stop harassing people over the flag. Despite the government’s threats, Adi said he had seen no indications that the warnings had any impact on those flying the flag. “Why would I be scared of any sanctions?” Adi asked.