The 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence Day was celebrated in an extraordinary way beneath the waters of the Thousand Islands. Among the participants was Muhammad Raifasya, who took part in an underwater flag-raising ceremony held by the local community on Monday (August 11, 2025). This unique event was not only a commemoration of the nation’s independence but also a tribute to Indonesia’s rich marine biodiversity and the people’s dedication to environmental conservation.
The ceremony, filled with both patriotic spirit and environmental awareness, brought together young people and divers from local communities. Carrying the national flag, Sang Saka Merah Putih, participants descended into the clear blue waters and raised it on a pole planted within a coral reef restoration site. The moment was solemn yet awe-inspiring as the red-and-white flag fluttered gracefully amidst vibrant marine life, witnessed by divers saluting beneath the sea surface. The underwater ceremony demonstrated a profound blend of nationalism and ecological consciousness, reflecting the growing commitment among Indonesian youth to safeguard the ocean as part of their patriotic duty.
One of the participants expressed that the ceremony held a dual meaning. “We wanted to celebrate independence in a special way while also sending a message that protecting the sovereignty of our seas from environmental damage is our form of modern struggle,” he said. The event, initiated by the local community, successfully strengthened the spirit of nationalism while highlighting the importance of marine preservation. It became a symbolic gesture of how love for the nation and love for nature are deeply intertwined — both essential in building a sustainable future for Indonesia.
Through this activity, participants also aimed to showcase Indonesia’s vast natural wealth, particularly the marine beauty surrounding Pramuka Island in the Thousand Islands, Jakarta. The underwater flag ceremony exemplifies the strong connection between humans and the ocean — a reminder that every act of conservation contributes to maintaining the country’s environmental sovereignty. Moreover, this activity aligns with the academic and community service spirit of Universitas Airlangga’s Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science (FPK UNAIR), which consistently promotes education, research, and public engagement focused on marine sustainability. The event’s combination of nationalism and environmental advocacy demonstrates the relevance of marine science education in nurturing future leaders who are both patriotic and environmentally responsible.
