Osaka, Kansai, Japan, August 18, 2025 – The vibrant celebration of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day was felt at the Indonesia Pavilion during World Expo 2025 Osaka. Held over two days, August 16–17, 2025, the pavilion hosted a series of festivities that blended traditional arts, contemporary theatre, and popular music, delivering a memorable Independence Day experience on the international stage. The celebration began on August 16 with traditional dance performances, followed by a show by Papermoon Puppet Theatre, and closed with an energetic performance by JKT48 that captivated the audience.

The highlight of the celebration took place on August 17 with a Flag Salute Ceremony at the Indonesia Pavilion, attended by 50 guests including staff and invitees. The ceremony was solemn, yet full of togetherness. Pavilion Director Rahmat Mulianda shared, “A very emotional moment. After years of celebrating national holidays in Indonesia, this time we could hold the ceremony at the Indonesia Pavilion.” Pavilion Indonesia also invited representatives from neighboring pavilions, including Australia and India, to attend a symbolic tumpeng-cutting ceremony.

In the afternoon, Papermoon returned to perform, followed by traditional Independence Day games such as the balloon dance, pencil-in-the-bottle, and drawing relay. Wrapping up the celebration, JKT48 once again lit up the stage. By the end of the day, the Pavilion had welcomed 29,129 visitors, with a total of 2,024,099 since its opening in April 2025. This celebration wasn’t just entertainment—it was cultural diplomacy, offering a glimpse of a dynamic Indonesia. Thousands of visitors experienced the uniqueness of Indonesian culture and the spirit of national pride.

For the latest updates on Indonesia’s participation at World Expo 2025 Osaka and the Indonesia Pavilion, follow Instagram @expo2025indonesia.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION: INDONESIA PAVILION HOLDS 80th ANNIVERSARY FESTIVITIES AT EXPO 2025 OSAKA