Novali Panji Nugroho, Jakarta – Herman Khaeron, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives from the Democratic Party faction, criticized the recent display of the One Piece pirate flag ahead of Indonesia's 80th Independence Day celebrations, calling it unethical. He said the fictional Jolly Roger symbol does not align with nationalist values.
"It's unethical. Many criticisms and suggestions could have been expressed in a more appropriate manner," Herman said at the Parliament Complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
Herman voiced concern about the growing trend of hoisting the One Piece flag. He believes that in the current atmosphere of independence and efforts to promote patriotism, raising a pirate flag is unnecessary.
He pointed to several programs under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, such as Free Nutritious Meals, People's Schools, and the Red and White Village Cooperative.
According to Herman, these initiatives reflect the government's commitment to strengthening human resources and fostering national unity.
"Let's avoid actions that provoke unrest in unnecessary ways," said Herman, who also serves as Secretary-General of the Democratic Party's Central Executive Board.
The recent popularity of the One Piece Jolly Roger flag is seen by some as a symbol of public discontent with government policies. The flag, which features a skull wearing a straw hat, represents the Straw Hat Pirates led by Monkey D. Luffy, the main character in the Japanese comic.
One Piece is a manga series written and illustrated by Eiichiro Oda. First published on July 22, 1997, the series follows Luffy's journey to become the Pirate King.
For many fans, One Piece resonates as a symbol of resistance against injustice. Throughout the story, Luffy and his crew often face corrupt governments, brutal militaries, human rights abuses, genocide, racial discrimination, and historical manipulation.
– Dinda Shabrina contributed to the writing of this article.