PAPUA – The spirit of celebrating the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia was strongly felt in Paniai Regency. Around 300 people, comprising Indigenous Papuans (OAP), migrants, and security personnel, jointly raised the Red-and-White flag at the summit of Mount Gobairo in East Paniai District on Monday (August 18, 2026).
The event served as a moment of togetherness for the people of Paniai to celebrate Indonesia’s independence. Since the early hours of the morning, residents had begun gathering at Karel Gobai Field before proceeding together toward Mount Gobairo.
At around 4:00 a.m. WIT, participants began gathering and received briefings regarding the series of activities. At approximately 5:00 a.m. WIT, the group then proceeded toward the summit while carrying the Red-and-White flag.
Danramil 1703/01 Enarotali Captain Inf. Eko Warsito said all participants arrived at the location at around 6:15 a.m. WIT and immediately prepared for the commemorative ceremony.
“The raising of the Red-and-White flag at Mount Gobairo reflects the community’s spirit in commemorating the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia, while also strengthening solidarity and togetherness,” said Captain Inf. Eko Warsito.
The commemorative ceremony was then held solemnly at approximately 6:45 a.m. WIT. Kasrem 173/PVB Colonel Inf. Abi Kusnianto served as the Inspector of the Ceremony. The ceremony included the raising of the Red-and-White flag, the recitation of Pancasila and the Proclamation text, as well as a tribute to the values and sacrifices of the nation’s independence struggle.
Following the ceremony, the spirit of togetherness continued through a group photo session and a gathering among participants. The participants then descended from Mount Gobairo and gathered around the area near Enarotali Runway 09.
The atmosphere became even more festive with community entertainment and a door-prize distribution. Two bicycles and one television were among the main prizes, adding to the enthusiasm of residents until the event concluded.
The entire series of activities ended at around 10:00 a.m. WIT. Overall, the event proceeded safely, smoothly, and in a conducive atmosphere, with strong participation from the community.
Amid information regarding calls for residents not to participate in Independence Day commemorations, the people of Paniai continued to show their enthusiasm by attending and celebrating the national independence moment together.
For the people of Paniai, raising the Red-and-White flag at Mount Gobairo was more than a ceremonial activity. The presence of people from diverse backgrounds in a single celebration reflected the spirit of brotherhood and togetherness that continues to grow within the community.
The participation of Indigenous Papuans, migrants, and security personnel in the same series of commemorative activities also demonstrated that the spirit of independence can serve as a common ground for strengthening unity, maintaining harmony, and fostering peaceful community life in Paniai Regency.
From the heights of Mount Gobairo, the Red-and-White flag flew proudly amid the enthusiasm of the people. The message was simple yet powerful: independence is celebrated together, unity is protected together, and Indonesia remains a home for all its people.
