Wawan Kurniawan, Antara, Jakarta – Flying the Jolly Roger next to the Indonesian flag this Independence Month? Authorities say that's a no-go.

As houses across Indonesia start displaying the red-and-white national flag to mark the country's 80th Independence Day celebration on August 17, officials have raised concerns about another flag popping up alongside it – the Jolly Roger from the hit anime series One Piece.

In Banten, local police warned that hoisting the pirate-themed flag near the national flag could be seen as disrespectful and provocative.

"If we find any violations, we will take firm action," said Banten Deputy Police Chief Brigadier General Hengki on Saturday in Tangerang.

According to Hengki, pairing the Jolly Roger with the national flag could be interpreted as an insult to national symbols and a slight to the values of patriotism and the sacrifices of independence heroes.

That said, Hengki noted there haven't been any actual sightings of the One Piece flag being flown in Banten. "Here in Banten, residents are flying the red and white only," he added.

Still, images of the Jolly Roger – specifically the version with the signature straw hat – have been making the rounds online and even showing up in a few neighborhoods, sparking debate ahead of the country's milestone celebration.

Over in Belitung, local authorities have also stepped in. The regional political affairs agency has asked residents not to fly the pirate flag outside their homes.

"We're asking people not to raise the One Piece flag, especially as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Republic. It just doesn't fit with our national symbols," said Fedy Malonda, head of the local National Unity and Politics Agency.

He reminded the public that August is a time for national pride, and the flag that should be flying in front of homes is the Merah Putih.

"That One Piece flag might look cool on the back of a fishing boat – but make sure the red-and-white is flying up front," he added with a chuckle.

Interestingly, some online users assumed it was illegal to display non-national flags. But Indonesian law doesn't actually prohibit cultural or fictional flags on private property. The rule is simple: if you're flying more than one flag, the national flag must always take the place of honor.

Source: https://jakartaglobe.id/lifestyle/no-pirate-flags-next-to-merah-putih-say-indonesian-authoritie