"More than just a monument, the Proclamation Monument is a silent witness to the birth of our nation. It's the very spot where on August 17, 1945, the powerful voices of Soekarno and Hatta echoed Indonesia's independence. A place that truly teaches us the meaning of struggle."
Photo by Mufid Majnun on Unsplash
Various historical sites in Indonesia bear silent witness to important events, one of which is the Declaration of Independence. In Jakarta, there are several locations that hold powerful stories of the heroes' struggle for freedom, and one of them is the Proclamation Monument, also known as the "Lightning Monument."
Photo by Ryan Dinata on Unsplash
This place was where Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta declared Indonesia's independence on August 17, 1945. The Proclamation Monument stands in the Proclamation Park, on Proklamasi Street (formerly Pegangsaan Timur Street No. 56), Central Jakarta.
Within this complex, you can see two large statues of Soekarno and Hatta standing side-by-side, similar to the historical photograph from when the proclamation text was first read. Between the two statues, there is a replica of the proclamation text made from black marble with writing that mimics the original typed manuscript. Additionally, there are 17 pillars behind the statues that symbolize the date of Indonesia's independence.
Photo by Mufid Majnun on Unsplash
After the reform era, this monument has not only remained a special place for Indonesia's Independence Day each year but has also become a favorite location for the public to voice their aspirations and opinions. In the afternoon, many local residents come to exercise, socialize, or simply sit and relax. This place has also become a fun playground for children.
