TIMES MALAYSIA, BLITAR – Every August 17, the Red and White flag rises proudly over the Indonesian archipelago, marking the day the nation broke free from colonial rule in 1945. On this date, Soekarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaimed Indonesia’s independence, igniting celebrations across the country.

But the spirit of independence had already been burning months earlier in Blitar, home to the historic Monumen Potlot.

Located in the serene grounds of Raden Wijaya Heroes Cemetery, Monumen Potlot commemorates a daring act that took place on February 14, 1945, six months before the official proclamation.

In the pre-dawn hours, Shodancho Parto Hardjono of PETA (Defenders of the Homeland) raised the Red and White flag at Bendogerit Field, a pole normally reserved for Japan’s Hinomaru. For three hours, the flag flew before Japanese forces suppressed the rebellion.

The Story of “Potlot” and the Young Fighters

Historian Bambang In Mardiono, in his book Bunga Rampai Sejarah Blitar, explains that “Potlot,” meaning “pencil,” symbolizes the youthful spirit of the fighters—many only 14 to 16 years old.

The monument’s pointed design reflects this metaphor, standing as a reminder that Indonesia’s struggle for freedom was driven not just by seasoned leaders, but also by young students willing to risk everything.

The rebellion, led by Sudanco Supriyadi, involved around 163 soldiers. Six were sentenced to death, including Sudanco Muradi, Sudanco Sunanto, Sudanco Suparyono, Budanco Sudarmo, Budanco Halir Mangkuprojo, and Dr. Ismangil, while others faced prison terms. Their sacrifice became a symbol of resistance and unity.

Independence Day Festivities Across the Nation

Today, Independence Day begins with solemn flag-raising ceremonies at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta and at local government offices, schools, and communities.

The Paskibraka or the flag hoisting troop selected from high school students from across Indonesiaraise the Merah Putih with military precision, honoring the heroes who came before them.

Beyond the official events, the day bursts into celebration. Villages and cities host lomba (traditional competitions) such as panjat pinang, sack races, and tug-of-war. Streets come alive with decorations, music, and parades showcasing Indonesia’s cultural diversity.

Lessons from Blitar’s Early Act of Defiance

For visitors like Fadhillio Ibra Farissandro Abriakto, a young Blitar resident with a passion for history, Monumen Potlot offers a tangible link to the sacrifices of the past.

“Seeing this monument in person helps me understand that independence was fought for with immense sacrifice, even by those who were still very young,” he said during his visit on August 9, 2025.

The Raden Wijaya Heroes Cemetery, home to the monument, also features other historical treasures such as a replica of Candi Panataran and the graves of national heroes. Schools and communities often use the site for history education, ensuring that the next generation understands the true cost of freedom.

Carrying the Spirit Forward

Independence Day is not just a celebration of the past—it is a call to carry forward the values of 1945: courage, unity, and resilience. The challenges of today—economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social harmony—require the same determination shown by those who raised the Red and White in defiance of oppression.

As fireworks illuminate the night sky on August 17, they reflect not only the joy of independence but also the light of sacrifice from heroes like those of Blitar.

Monumen Potlot stands as a timeless reminder that the fight for freedom began long before the proclamation, and that the spirit of independence must continue to guide Indonesia’s future. (*)