Key Facts
• August 17 marks Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day anniversary.
• The Straw Hat Pirates’ flag from the Japanese manga One Piece is used in protests.
• The flag features a skull wearing a straw hat and is displayed on vehicles and homes.
• Protests target President Prabowo Subianto’s policies, seen as authoritarian.
• Authorities warn against displaying the pirate flag alongside Indonesia’s red-and-white national flag.
• Violations of flag laws can result in up to 5 years imprisonment or $31,000 fines.
• The flag’s use began with truck drivers and spread online and offline.
• Protesters cite corruption and limited freedom of speech as reasons for using the flag.
• Human rights groups argue the flag’s use is protected under free speech laws.
• Police have raided printing facilities producing the pirate flag.
• Young Indonesians continue to risk protests despite government warnings.
Summary
In Indonesia, the pirate flag of the Straw Hat Pirates from the Japanese manga One Piece has become a symbol of protest against government policies ahead of the country’s 80th Independence Day on August 17. Protesters, including students and truck drivers, use the flag to criticize President Prabowo Subianto’s administration, citing corruption and restricted freedom of speech. Authorities have intensified crackdowns, warning against displaying the flag alongside the national flag, with violators facing severe penalties. Despite police raids and government warnings, young Indonesians continue to use the flag as a form of resistance, supported by human rights groups advocating for free speech. The flag’s popularity reflects growing dissatisfaction with the government and the creative use of cultural symbols in modern protests.
