Hopefully, we would be able to inherit the fighting spirit demonstrated by the nation’s founders. Thus, we can continue to building an advanced Indonesia.
Jakarta (ANTARA) – The presidential archive and car exhibition to commemorate the 77th Independence Day of Indonesia was officially inaugurated by State Secretary Minister Pratikno at Sarinah Mall, Central Jakarta, on Saturday.
“By saying ‘Bismillahrrohmanirrohim’ (In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful), we open the exhibition this morning,” he stated.
A total of seven presidential cars used by the seven presidents of Indonesia are showcased at the southern parking lot of the shopping center.
The 1939 Buick car used by Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno, became the oldest presidential car to be displayed at the event.
Meanwhile, the newest presidential car displayed is the 2008 Mercedes-Benz S600 Guard used by the sixth president, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and the seventh president, Joko Widodo.
Related news: Independence Day encourages collaboration to achieve 2030 SDGs
Meanwhile, the archives were showcased along the hallway of the north entrance of Sarinah Mall.
Some of the archives include video recording of the reading of Indonesia’s independence proclamation as well as several government policies, including President Soekarno’s order to eradicate illiteracy.
The minister expects that visitors can take a cue from the historical objects showcased at the event.
“Certainly, it (the implementation of the exhibition) not only encourages us to directly see the archives and cars, but more importantly, (we can learn) how the founding fathers, the nation’s heroes, have worked hard to risk everything they had for the establishment of this beloved country,” he remarked.
He emphasized that it is now the responsibility of all Indonesian people to continue the struggle of the heroes.
Related news: Jokowi bestows honorary medals as part of Independence Day celebration
Furthermore, Pratikno noted that the Sarinah Mall is a strategic location to hold the exhibition since the shopping center has a remarkable history for being initiated by President Soekarno as the first mall in Indonesia.
The mall also serves as the showcase of Indonesian heritage of art works and creative products, he stated.
“Hopefully, we would be able to inherit the fighting spirit demonstrated by the nation’s founders. Thus, we can continue to building an advanced Indonesia,” he affirmed.
The presidential archive and car exhibition is scheduled to be held until August 31, 2022.
Related news: Exhibition of presidential cars to commemorate Independence Day
Related news: Complete flag-raising formation at Independence Day ceremony: official