PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony at the West Java provincial level was held for the first time in the courtyard of Gedung Sate on Monday (August 17, 2026). This year's commemoration was different: the public was allowed to observe the ceremony up close, especially during the parade.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi acted as the ceremony's inspector. On the occasion, KDM, Dedi Mulyadi's nickname, apologized to the people of West Java for not being able to liberate all the people.

This is evident in the fact that more than 80,000 residents still lack electricity. This is despite West Java being a hub for electrical energy, with hydroelectric power plants (PLTA) at the Cirata Reservoir and the Jatiluhur Reservoir. West Java also boasts geothermal power plants.

KDM promised that basic services that some residents lack access to will soon be facilitated. To achieve this, the West Java Regional Budget (APBD) will be focused on providing basic services to the public.

"No one should be admitted to the hospital and sent home with debt because they can't afford to pay. No one should have a Caesarean section and have their ID card confiscated by the hospital because they can't afford to pay," said KDM.

He invited all parties, such as the Police, TNI, Courts, and regional agencies to create a free, sovereign, just and prosperous society.

KDM also admitted to being willing to make sacrifices to ensure the independence of all West Java residents. Some of the measures he has taken include postponing the purchase of new clothes using state funds and delaying the purchase of property for official residences using state funds.

"All of these delays are aimed at improving the education level of the West Java community, to a minimum of 12 years. This will improve the health, economic, and employment opportunities of the West Java community," said KDM.

He asked state administrators to follow his lead in providing the best for the people, rather than making excessive demands on the state.

"Don't think about increasing allowances, demanding facilities, even though they're already substantial. We should be ashamed. We should foster a sense of justice among all people," said KDM.

On this year's Indonesian Independence Day, KDM is also determined to free the younger generation from destructive things, such as illegal drugs.

The community is enthusiastic

The 81st Indonesian Independence Day ceremony in the courtyard of Gedung Sate, which provided more space for the public, was met with enthusiasm. Maryam, a Soreang resident, was surprised when the Chief of Staff of the Indonesian National Army (KDM) invited people to approach the guest stage for a closer look at the parade.

"Usually security is tight, I was surprised when residents were able to see the procession up close," said Maryam.

He was proud to be able to set foot on the grounds of Gedung Sate. Usually, Gedung Sate is open to the public on a limited basis.

"After opening like this, I'm quite proud because I can set foot in Gedung Sate as an ordinary citizen," said Maryam.

Tini, a Pasirkoja resident, felt a similar sense of pride. She had never previously entered the Gedung Sate courtyard.

"I'm proud to be able to enter this year because previously we were just standing outside Gedung Sate," said Tini.

She was delighted that her child could see the ranks of soldiers, police, and street sweepers marching during the parade. Furthermore, Tini was also excited to see the KDM up close.

WEST JAVA PUBLIC RELATIONS
Head of the Communication and Information Service of West Java Province
Adi Komar