JAYAPURA - The Daily Executive of Papua Governor Muhammad Ridwan Rumasukun appealed to all Papuan people to raise the red and white flag in their respective neighborhoods, starting from 1 to 31 August 2023.

The raising of flags in the neighborhood aims to participate in enlivening the 78th of Indonesian Independence Day 2023 in Papua Province with the theme "Continue to Move Forward for Advanced Indonesia." (Terus Melaju untuk Indonesia Maju)

This was the narrative of the Acting Governor of Papua through the Head of the Papua Communication and Informatics Department, Jeri A. Yudianto, Sunday (30/7/2023) afternoon.

"Not only the national flag but also encouraged to put up decorations, pennants, posters, banners, billboards or related decoration. The point is that the spirit of independence is really felt in our environment," said Jeri, in a telephone call.

He also hopes that Papuans enliven and participate in a number of competition events that will be made by the provincial government, ahead of the independence commemoration on the peak day, August 17, 2023.

"There will be competitions that will be opened to the public. There is also an entertainment stage, free medical treatment and others."

"With this community participation, of course we hope that the atmosphere of commemorating the Indonesian Independence Day this time will be more festive after the lifting of the Covid-19 pandemic status," he hoped.

Meanwhile, regarding the momentum of commemorating the seconds of the proclamation at the celebration of the flag-raising ceremony at the Mandala Stadium in Jayapura on August 17, 2023, added Jeri, all residents are urged to stop all activities for three minutes to honor the services of heroes who have sacrificed for the nation.

"But this pause exception applies to anyone with the activity that has the potential to harm others if stopped."

"It means that you may be driving, please continue the activity. Because if you stop suddenly, it's not good either. Unless you are at a red light and are in a stopped state, you are advised to stop activities for a moment," he concluded. ***