JAKARTA: Indonesian singer Putri Ariani, a contestant on America’s Got Talent 2023, brought a joyful ambiance to the Merdeka Palace today as part of the Independence Day celebration.
Accompanied by the piano, she mesmerised thousands of guests and Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who was seated near the main stage with the song ‘Melati Putih’ composed by Guruh Sukarno Putra.
Before continuing with the second song, the singer announced she will perform in the semifinal of America’s Got Talent on Sept 5 in Los Angeles and requested support from the entire Indonesian community.
Hundreds of guests, wearing traditional ethnic costumes, including ministers, military and police officers, flooded the open area to dance as she performed the song, ’Rungkad’ by Vicky Tri Prasetyo.
This year’s Independence Day theme, ‘Striving to Progress Indonesia,’ embodies collective efforts for the country’s advancement.
Vice President Ma’ruf Amin noted the meaningfulness of this year’s celebration and how various traditional attires represent Indonesia’s ethnic diversity.
“We hope Indonesia will continue to advance towards progress. We will make it happen. Insya-Allah (God willing), we will celebrate in the new capital city of Nusantara next year,” he added.
The event kicked off with a marching band parade from the National Monument to the palace. This was followed by the military firing artillery in a gun salute before the flag-raising ceremony.
The celebrations also included Air Force jet fighters and helicopters flying over the palace.
Across the archipelagic country, the government and communities joined hands to arrange flag-raising ceremonies, traditional and modern sports competitions as well as social gatherings to foster unity.
US President Joe Biden, in a statement, conveyed heartfelt wishes to Joko Widodo and Indonesians for their 78th year of independence.
He noted both countries are working towards a strong and resilient future in the open Indo-Pacific region, adding that existing partnership enhances democracy, security, and prosperity.
Biden also emphasised cooperation to address global challenges such as climate change and environmental protection while strengthening people-to-people ties.
He lauded Indonesia’s Asean leadership during its chairmanship and supported the 2023 Asean theme, “Asean Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.” – BERNAMA
