Independence Day is a time for all to celebrate the years of solidarity and togetherness. A time for all to salute the heroes who made sacrifices for future generations. And in the case of the Merah Putih Club at Limkokwing University, the day was just that.

The Merah Putih Club at Limkokwing University came together to bring Indonesia to Malaysia, in an event which relived the jubilation and camaraderie felt in the hearts of all Indonesians.

With Indonesia gaining their independence on the 17th of August 1945, this year marks their 65th celebration.

Students jump up and down in excitement as they dance to classic Indonesian songs during the event.

Every year, the Merah Putih Club thinks of ingenious ways to theme their events and find ways to continuously make each event better than the last. This year the celebration was dubbed “Pasar Malam Kemerdekaan” which stands for “Independence Day Night Market.”

In relation to the theme, stalls with a variety of food, drink, games and exhibitions were strewn across the Limkokwing University Plaza, with students and guests being able to indulge where they pleased.

To commemorate the event, the patriotic Paskibra (Flag hoist) was led by a procession of impeccably dressed students who wore the national colours of Indonesia, red and white, and marched in unison with the Indonesian flag in hand, towards the stage.

In a bid to break from the norm, a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem was played on the saxophone with students standing in respect, for their beloved country.

Falling under the Holy month of Ramadhan, this year’s Independence gave students and guests the opportunity to break fast together with a host of delectable Indonesian foods set to get your mouth watering.

Wening Gemi Nastiti, President of the Merah Putih club, said this Independence Day is special, as this is the first Independence Day she has successfully organized with the help of her committee members.

“I am proud for being able to bring all the Indonesian students together to celebrate our Independence Day. The atmosphere here today and everyone who has been able to make it makes it feel like we are at home.”

International students from Lithuania also join in on the days celebration.

When asked what this day means to her she replied, “Independence to me means freedom, freedom not only on being free but we have to prove to the world that we can make a better future for Indonesia.”

With a variety of fun traditional games such as Lempar Bola and Lempar Kaleng set up for all to play, students were continuously entertained by music by Portgas, Ejias and Gema All Star just to name a few. 

In a bid to find out what Independence means to them, students were asked one important question, what does Independence Day mean to you?

The replies were heartfelt answers which truly epitomized their love and feelings for their country. The students, who are all from Limkokwing and studying various courses ranging from Mass Communication to Graphic Design, had this to say about what Independence means to them.

Winardi Soputro said, “Independence to me means reminiscing and respecting the struggle of our heroes and ancestors who fought tirelessly to make our country what it is.’

“Independence means the pride it brings you to be able to stand on your own two feet,” said Khairun Nisa.

Maverick plays a heartfelt rendition of the Indonesian national anthem on his saxaphone as students bow their heads in respect

Angel Wyelif, a student in Bachelor of Professional Communication said, “I am proud of the fact that I am an Indonesian. I am proud of the sacrifices made by the warriors and heroes of our country. Because of them, Indonesia is now a united nation.”

Silvie Hosea a student doing her Bachelor in Fashion and Retailing said, “It is the day to remind me of the sacrifices our fore-fathers and heroes made for our country. I am proud to be an Indonesian. ” 

With this sense of freedom and revelry, students reminisce on the ways they want to build on the foundation set for them by their elders, their parents, those that make them proud, who have fought for them and their place in the world and their privileges.

Indonesians have been able to place themselves in different parts of the world talented in numerous amounts of skills which have allowed them to make a name for themselves. This in turn makes them lucky in being able to bring to the table the values they stand for.

The union created by the Merah Putih Club within the University has created a home away from home atmosphere and it is inspiring to see that even in Cyberjaya, Malaysia through this club, they work hard in bridging the gap between all Indonesians, making sure they are connected.

In the spirit of independence and freedom, it is now clear that there are great things to be achieved and these students can make an impact in bettering Indonesia and its people.