Presidential Palace Hosts Independence Day Run to Celebrate 80 Years of Freedom
As part of the celebration of the 80th Anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence, the Presidential Palace, in collaboration with Ministry of Youth and Sports (Sunday (08/24) hosted the Merdeka Run 8.0K, attracting thousands of participants from the public.
“On behalf of the organizing committee, I’d like to express once again our gratitude for the remarkable participation of the public throughout the entire series of events commemorating Indonesia’s 80th Independence Anniversary,” Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi said to the press.
“We want to stay healthy to build Indonesia, to advance the nation, and to bring prosperity to the people. Everyone must be healthy,” he added.
The Merdeka Run featured two main categories, the 8.0K run and the 4.5K family run.
Both categories welcomed broad public participation, making this sporting event a celebration of togetherness in the spirit of independence.
Ahead of the race, the atmosphere grew livelier when a helicopter flew overhead carrying a giant flag displaying the official 80th Independence Day logo, followed by a flyby of Indonesian Air Force F-16 fighter jets. This performance drew cheers from runners and spectators who had gathered around the Merdeka Palace since early morning.
At 6:30 Western Indonesian Time, Prasetyo Hadi, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, and Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo officially flagged off the runners.
The 4.5K family run route began at the Merdeka Palace, passed the Patung Kuda area, circled the HI Roundabout, and returned to the Palace as the finish line. Meanwhile, the 8.0K run covered a longer route from the palace through the HI Roundabout and Sudirman area to the BNI City area before returning to the Palace.
The public showed great enthusiasm, whether running or enjoying the festive atmosphere. Many dressed in red-and-white attire, while some wore creative costumes that added to the celebratory mood.
Through the Merdeka Run 8.0K, the Government also wants to highlight that the spirit of independence is not only commemorated through solemn ceremonies but also through activities that unite the people in a spirit of positivity.
Sports were chosen to encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for the people. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (FI/EP)
