Criticism Behind the One Piece Flag, State Secretary: Better to Find a Solution Together

JAKARTA, KOMPAS – The government and the DPR do not deny that there are still many national problems that have yet to be resolved. Therefore, the state invites all elements of society to work together to find solutions. This is more appropriate than displaying a One Piece flag, which is feared to undermine the sanctity of the commemoration of Indonesia's independence.

As is known, in the lead-up to the 80th anniversary of Indonesia's independence on August 17, pirate flags inspired by the Japanese anime and manga series "One Piece" have been widely displayed in various locations, from residential fences to trucks. One Piece flags are often displayed alongside the Red and White flag. The installation of these flags has also gained significant attention on social media, with many netizens posting them as a form of criticism towards the current social and governmental conditions.

The Minister of State Secretary (Mensesneg) Prasetyo Hadi, after meeting with several logistics driver associations at the DPR Building in Jakarta on Monday (4/8/2025), did not question the creativity of some groups who displayed One Piece flags. This was interpreted as a form of freedom of expression.

However, what he fears is that there are parties who exploit that creativity to tarnish the meaning of the independence commemoration, especially to the extent of urging not to fly the Red and White flag anymore.

"Well, as the government and certainly all of us, we hope that this August will not be tarnished by anything sacred. Today, we hope that on the 80th anniversary of Indonesia's independence, regardless of the circumstances, as a nation we must unite, we must be optimistic as children of the nation," added Prasetyo.

The meeting at the DPR Building with several associations of logistics drivers also touched on the installation of the One Piece flag. As is known, this flag has also been widely displayed by truck drivers. In addition, the meeting discussed the Zero Over Dimension Over Load (ODOL) policy, which is targeted to be implemented in 2027. From the DPR, Deputy Chairman Sufmi Dasco Ahmad was present.

Prasetyo continued, even though there are still many national issues that have not been addressed, including the fulfillment of the ideals of independence that remain far from expectations, all elements should unite to seek a solution.

"Yes, there are problems. We're not covering them up. We're addressing all the issues one by one. If you pay attention, today's problem-solving patterns are becoming a new trend. The government, the House of Representatives, and all stakeholders in society are sitting together and seeking solutions," he added.

He emphasized that the government is always open to all input, including criticism from the public.

When asked about the potential legal action against those who display the One Piece flag, the Minister of State Secretary explained that action would only be taken if there are parties that actively "shift the meaning" of that creative expression into a political invitation to deny the Red and White flag.

"Even if there is enforcement, that is what I have explained repeatedly. If there are parties that shift the meaning of that expression. For example, by urging that it is better to wave this (One Piece flag), not this (Red and White). How is this? This is the sacred Red and White flag," he emphasized.

The Deputy Chairman of the DPR from the Gerindra Party faction, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, also believes that the main issue is not the installation of the "One Piece" flag, but rather its use by certain parties for purposes that could lead to division.

"Actually, there is no problem with the flag. Many people like it and enjoy it. We believe that creativity, the display of flags, and the use of the One Piece flag are not an issue," explained Dasco.

Nevertheless, he emphasized concerns regarding the manipulation of public opinion related to the use of flags. He is worried that certain parties may exploit this phenomenon to divide society.

Meanwhile, a representative of the association who is also the Chairman of the Central Java Independent Drivers Alliance (API), Suroso, instructed all of his members to simultaneously display the Red and White flag as a form of respect for the services of heroes and the celebration of independence. He did not hesitate to issue a stern warning to his members if they ignored this instruction.

"As the chairman, I instruct that the Red and White flag must be displayed. Anyone who does not follow the organization's rules will bear the consequences themselves," he stated.

Furthermore, Suroso urged the state, through the government, to intervene and not allow the phenomenon of the One Piece flag installation to continue. According to him, the government needs to take firm legal enforcement measures if necessary.

The call, he continued, is not only about internal organizational order but also a manifestation of compliance with the applicable laws and regulations. Moreover, all central, provincial, and district/city administrators have agreed to adhere to the law. "We must comply with the laws in our country," he added.

Apart from their respective vehicles, each driver is also required to display the Red and White flag at home to commemorate the struggle of the nation's heroes.