Indonesia’s Deputy Minister: “Youth Aren’t a Threat — They Just Want to Be Heard”

Jakarta, One Piece Flag Controversy Indonesia – As Indonesia approaches its 80th Independence Day, a seemingly innocuous act — the hoisting of the One Piece pirate flag — has sparked national controversy and ignited deep conversations about patriotism, symbolism, and generational divides.

In recent days, images of the Straw Hat Pirates’ emblem — inspired by the globally popular Japanese manga One Piece — have appeared in various parts of Indonesia. Critics have labeled the act as disrespectful, accusing young Indonesians of undermining the sacredness of the national red-and-white flag, Merah Putih. But Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer has a different perspective.

Speaking after a public forum in Jakarta, Ebenezer — often called “Noel” — urged the public to understand the context before rushing to judgment.

“These young people are growing up in a world saturated with symbols, stories, and global pop culture. They resonate with the ideals in One Piece — freedom, friendship, and resistance against injustice,” Noel explained. “Using that flag doesn’t mean they hate Indonesia. They’re just trying to express themselves.”

While he reaffirmed the sacred status of the national flag, Noel emphasized that the One Piece flag should not be seen as a replacement, but rather as a cry for attention — a symbol of disillusionment, not rebellion.

“This isn’t an uprising. It’s a plea to be heard,” he said. “Just like the characters in One Piece, these kids aren’t driven by hatred but by frustration and a longing for change.”

For Noel, the real issue is not the symbolism itself, but what it reflects — a generation feeling unseen in their own country. He believes the government’s role should be not just to reprimand, but to listen, understand, and engage.

“If young people only find values like justice, solidarity, and hope in fiction, then it’s time for the nation to reflect,” Noel added. “Their energy shouldn’t be extinguished — it should be channeled toward something meaningful.”

He also warned that harsh, reactionary responses from officials could do more harm than good, widening the gap between state institutions and the youth.

“They’re not anti-national. They still respect Merah Putih, but they’re disappointed in how the country is being run. That disappointment stems from love. They want a better Indonesia,” said Noel. “If we keep labeling them as threats, we risk losing them entirely.”

In closing, Noel called for empathy and wisdom in navigating generational tensions.

“This isn’t a battle between One Piece and the national flag,” he concluded. “It’s about young Indonesians searching for a sense of belonging in their own land. If we truly listen, that disappointment can become a force for positive change.”

This article also appears on Hey Bali News.
Written by Giostanovlatto.

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