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August 08.2025

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From Anime to Activism: The Rise of One Piece's Jolly Roger as a Protest Symbol in Indonesia

Stylized One Piece protest symbol in urban Indonesia.

How a Pirate Flag Became a Symbol of Protest in Indonesia

Amidst the backdrop of Indonesia's political landscape, an unexpected symbol is capturing the zeitgeist of a generation—an anime-inspired pirate flag from the popular series "One Piece." This Jolly Roger, marked by a skull wearing a straw hat, has transitioned from a fictional emblem to a potent tool of protest against government discontent. As the country approaches its 80th independence anniversary, the flag's rise in popularity has prompted officials to enforce restrictions, citing concerns over public order and respect for national symbols.

The Rising Tide of Dissent

Initially adopted by truck drivers earlier this summer, the flag's virality has ignited a broader movement, reflecting the frustrations felt by many citizens towards President Prabowo Subianto's administration. Young people, like 24-year-old university student Khariq Anhar from Riau, view the flag as a means to voice their dissatisfaction in a country where freedom of speech is often curtailed: "I believe freedom of speech in Indonesia exists, but it is very limited. Voicing your opinion is getting more dangerous," he stated.

Officials Push Back Against Symbolic Expression

Government responses have been swift, with officials warning against flying the flag alongside the national colors. The Chief Security Minister, Budi Gunawan, emphasized the need to avoid provocation with symbols irrelevant to Indonesia's unique struggles, while potential penalties for displaying the Jolly Roger include fines and imprisonment. Such measures underscore a delicate balancing act between political expression and national sentiment.

Public Sentiment and Political Climate

Experts believe the resurgence of this flag signifies more than just a whimsical trend; it embodies a deeper undercurrent of public frustration over economic policies and a perceived decline in democratic standards. Dedi Dinarto, an analyst at Global Counsel, noted, "Symbols like the pirate flag let people channel frustration without spelling it out," suggesting that the flag's appeal lies in its capacity for indirect commentary on the political environment.

The Future of Protest in Indonesia

As Indonesia moves forward, the intersection of culture and politics will continue to evolve, with new symbols and forms of dissent likely to emerge. The Jolly Roger can serve as a reminder that creative expressions will play a vital role in shaping the political dialogue, representing both resistance and the desire for a more transparent government.

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From Anime to Activism: The Rise of One Piece's Jolly Roger as a Protest Symbol in Indonesia

How a Pirate Flag Became a Symbol of Protest in Indonesia

The Rising Tide of Dissent

Officials Push Back Against Symbolic Expression

Public Sentiment and Political Climate

The Future of Protest in Indonesia

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