Flag of Indonesia

The Indonesian flag, known as “Sang Merah Putih ” (translated as “Red and White”), is the official symbol of the Republic of Indonesia. Its simple but meaningful design with two horizontal stripes of red and white symbolizes the struggle for independence and national unity.

History of the Indonesian flag

The history of the Indonesian flag dates back to ancient times when red and white were used in royal and military symbols.

The origin of the Indonesian flag

• XIII-XVI centuries: Red and white colors were common in the Majapagit and Sunda kingdoms that existed in what is now Indonesia.
• XIX-XX centuries: During the colonial period, Indonesia was ruled by the Netherlands, which used its tricolor as the official flag.

The modern flag of Indonesia

• August 17, 1945: During the declaration of Indonesian independence, nationalists raised the red and white flag, which became an important symbol of freedom from colonial rule.
• 1950: The flag was officially approved as the national symbol of Indonesia after the end of the struggle for independence.

Colors of the Indonesian flag

Meaning of the flag colors

The flag of Indonesia consists of two colors, each with a deep symbolic meaning:

1. Red:
   • Symbolizes courage, strength and the struggle for independence.
   • It represents the vitality and spirit of the Indonesian people.
2. White:
   • It represents purity, peace and justice.
   • Symbolizes spirituality and honesty.

Indonesian color codes

The official colors of the Indonesian flag are approved to accurately reproduce its design:

1. Red:
   • RGB: (206, 17, 38)
   • HEX: #CE1126
   • CMYK: (0, 91, 81, 19)
   • Pantone: 186 C
2. White:
   • RGB: (255, 255, 255)
   • HEX: #FFFFFF
   • CMYK: (0, 0, 0, 0)
   • Pantone: White

Flag format and proportions

The flag of Indonesia has a simple horizontal design.

Proportions of the flag of Indonesia

The official aspect ratio of the flag is 2:3, which is standard for most national flags.

Location of the stripes on the flag of Indonesia

1. The upper stripe is red.
2. The lower stripe is white.

In the case of vertical hanging, the order of colors remains unchanged, from left to right: red, white.

Interesting facts about the flag of Indonesia

1. Similarity to the flag of Monaco: The flags of Indonesia and Monaco have an identical red and white design, but the Indonesian flag has a 2:3 ratio and the Monaco flag has a 4:5 ratio.
2. The tradition of raising the flag: Every year on August 17, Indonesia’s Independence Day, official flag-raising ceremonies are held in Jakarta.
3. Ancient roots of colors: Red and white colors were used as far back as the Majapagit Empire in the 13th century as military banners.

The Indonesian flag is a symbol of national pride, independence and unity. Its simple but powerful design reflects the strength, courage and aspirations of the Indonesian people for freedom and prosperity.