Jakarta – The Indonesian Forum for Budget Transparency (FITRA) has criticized the State Palace for its lavish spending on the Independence Day celebrations scheduled for Friday.

FITRA coordinator Uchok Sky Khadafi said that the Rp 7.33 billion (US$769,650) being spent on the flag-raising ceremony was wasteful spending by the government. "It is a fantastic amount of money for a state ceremonial event," Uchok said.

FITRA data shows that the State Palace has spent Rp 1.7 billion on souvenirs to be distributed to guests attending the ceremony. It also estimates that Rp 1.1 billion will be used to pay for the air-conditioning system for the annual event.

For amenities, the State Palace is spending Rp 440 million on buffet food for the guests and another Rp 180 million on snacks.

Uchok said that rather than spending so recklessly for the celebration, the State Palace have instead staged a modest celebration, relying for funding from contributions from local neighborhoods.