The State Defense Day commemorated every December 19 has its roots in an important event in the history of the Indonesian nation's struggle against invaders. On December 19, 1948, the Dutch launched a second military aggression by attacking Yogyakarta, which was then the capital of the Republic of Indonesia, and capturing President Soekarno, Vice President Mohammad Hatta, and several other officials. In this precarious situation, Mr. Syafruddin Prawiranegara, then Minister of Prosperity, established the Emergency Government of the Republic of Indonesia (PDRI) in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra. This step ensured the continuity of the government of the Republic of Indonesia while proving to the world that Indonesia still existed as a sovereign state.
The PDRI played a vital role in continuing the diplomatic and military struggle against the Dutch, while motivating the people to continue to defend independence. In honor of the PDRI's struggle and the spirit of state defense shown by all Indonesians, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono established December 19 as State Defense Day through Presidential Decree No. 28/2006. This momentum reminds us of the importance of maintaining national unity, fostering love for the country, practicing the values of Pancasila, and playing an active role in maintaining state sovereignty for a sovereign, just and prosperous Indonesia.
Happy State Defense Day! Together, we realize a more advanced and prosperous Indonesia. Let's defend and maintain the unity of the nation, strengthen our love for the country and do our best for the nation and state according to our respective duties and professions.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
