Celebrating Independence Day: SLK Makassar’s Vibrant Commemoration

Sekolah Lentera Kasih (SLK) in Makassar brings the spirit of Indonesia’s independence to life with an engaging, student‑centred celebration. Anchored in the understanding that Independence Day is a significant moment in the nation’s history, the event combines solemn ceremonies with cultural showcases and playful contests. Instead of focusing on organisational details, this article highlights the activities that allow students from Grades 1–6 to experience history, culture and camaraderie first‑hand.

Honouring the Past and Inspiring Pride

The celebration begins by reminding students why 17 August matters. The proposal explains that Independence Day commemorates the courage, unity and sacrifice of those who fought for Indonesia’s freedom. This message is woven into the opening remarks and helps students connect their classroom learning about history with the festive activities ahead. Patriotism is not presented as an abstract ideal but as a living tradition passed down through generations.

Organisers set clear objectives for the day: instil national pride, nurture unity among students and staff, and celebrate the nation’s cultural richness. These goals shape everything from song choices to game rules, ensuring that fun and meaning coexist. By embedding these objectives into the programme, the school demonstrates how celebrations can double as experiential learning opportunities.

Throughout the day students are encouraged to reflect on the significance of independence. The event’s theme—“United, Sovereign, Prosperous People, Advance Indonesia”—appears on banners and posters, reminding participants that unity and progress go hand in hand. Classroom discussions and teachers’ introductions frame games and performances as expressions of collective identity rather than mere entertainment.

Ceremony and Cultural Showcase

Festivities start early with a formal flag ceremony. Students gather on the playground, where the national flag is hoisted to the sound of patriotic songs such as Indonesia Raya, Mengheningkan Cipta and Berkibarlah Benderaku. A choir of Grade 3 students leads the singing, giving younger pupils role models and turning the ceremony into a shared act of remembrance. Standing at attention in red‑and‑white uniforms, the students connect emotionally with the nation’s past and embrace their role as its future caretakers.

After the flag‑raising, everyone moves indoors for a cultural programme. The event begins with a spirited rendition of the Papuan folk song “Yamko Rambe Yamko”, chosen to symbolise Indonesia’s diversity. This song’s upbeat rhythm and regional origin remind students that independence belongs to all ethnic groups across the archipelago. The musical opening sets a celebratory tone and prepares the audience for the colourful display that follows.

The highlight of this cultural segment is a Traditional Clothes Fashion Show. One boy and one girl from each class parade in traditional attire representing various Indonesian regions. The audience applauds as each outfit appears on the runway, celebrating the range of textiles, colours and accessories that make up the country’s cultural tapestry. Students learn to appreciate diversity not just through lessons but by seeing their classmates embody it.

Traditional Games: Crackers and Tug of War

For many participants, the most memorable parts of Independence Day are the games that follow. The makan kerupuk (eating crackers) competition is a perennial favourite. Rows of crackers dangle from strings, and students try to eat them without using their hands—a light‑hearted test of balance and determination that leaves faces dotted with crumbs and smiles. The proposal emphasises that the game brings laughter and excitement to the celebration. Cheers echo through the yard as contestants bob for their snacks.

Next comes the Tug of War, a contest of strength and teamwork. Classes face off in friendly matches (Grade 1A versus 1B, 2A versus 2B, and so on), pulling on a rope while classmates shout encouragement. The game highlights cooperation: success depends not on individual power but on synchronising pulls and maintaining steady footing. Mixed in with the competitive spirit is an atmosphere of solidarity—students cheer even when they lose, proud of their effort and commitment.

The tug‑of‑war tradition extends to teachers, who stage their own match after the students’ rounds. Watching their teachers pull with abandon delights the children and blurs the boundaries between authority figures and learners. This playful moment underscores that school is a community where everyone participates and supports one another.

Creativity and Coordination: Rubber Band Bottle Drop

Among the more novel activities is the Rubber Band Bottle Drop Game. Each student takes a straw, places a rubber band on its end and tries to drop it into a bottle. Only one child plays at a time; once they finish, they run to the back of the line, allowing the next classmate a turn. The process continues for three minutes and is structured like a relay. The simple rules invite participation across age groups and emphasise fairness.

What makes this game challenging is the need for precision and patience. Students must align the straw carefully and release the rubber band at just the right moment to land it inside the bottle. Watching peers struggle and succeed fosters empathy and encouragement. Spectators cheer every successful drop, making even small victories feel like triumphs. The game reinforces the idea that progress often comes through small, repeated efforts rather than single grand gestures.

To ensure age‑appropriate competition, the game is played in two rounds: lower‑level students (Grades 1–3) compete first, followed by upper‑level students (Grades 4–6). Each level crowns one winning class, but the broader lesson is that support and persistence matter more than the final score. Such innovative activities keep Independence Day celebrations fresh and inclusive, ensuring that children of different ages can participate meaningfully.

A Full Day of Festivity

Independence Day at SLK Makassar is carefully paced to balance solemnity with merriment. The event rundown shows how the schedule flows from formal ceremonies into creative expression and playful contests. After the early‑morning flag raising and fashion show, students break for recess, refuel and head back out to the yard for games. Each activity has a designated time slot, ensuring that the day moves smoothly and that anticipation builds for each new event.

Breaks between activities allow students to socialise and reflect. Recess after the fashion show gives classes time to discuss their favourite costumes, while lunch after the tug‑of‑war provides a moment to rest and swap stories about near misses and epic pulls. These interludes contribute to the day’s relaxed and communal atmosphere, making the celebration feel both structured and spontaneous.

The festivities culminate with announcements of winners from the games and fashion show and a short closing message. While prizes recognise effort, the real reward is shared joy. Laughter, teamwork and cultural pride linger long after the event ends. In this way, SLK Makassar’s Independence Day celebration does more than commemorate a date—it strengthens bonds and instils values that will carry students forward.