August 7, 2025 | 09:43 am
A truck driver in Indonesia named Rahmat (30 years old), who works in the Kranji area of West Bekasi, chose to install a pirate flag from the One Piece manga at the back of his vehicle's cargo box. In addition to this flag, Rahmat and his colleague, Dadang (28 years old), also raised the Indonesian national flag in a higher position as a sign of respect for the Republic of Indonesia.
Rahmat intentionally installed the One Piece flag as an expression of peaceful protest against the increasingly difficult economic conditions. "This is purely an expression of aspiration. Nevertheless, the primary focus is on the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. I am an Indonesian citizen and always highly uphold the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia," said Rahmat when approached on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
Rahmat revealed that there are a total of six cargo trucks at his workplace. Five of them have already been adorned with flags depicting the Jolly Roger wearing a straw hat.
This action serves as a form of disappointment over the rising prices of basic necessities, which increasingly burdens the lower-income population. "The economy seems to fluctuate, even tends to decline," he said.
He emphasized that his limited income makes the situation even more challenging. With the installation of these flags, he hopes that the government can pay attention to the voice of the lower-income population and provide real solutions, including creating more job opportunities. "The hope is that the government not only listens but also provides solutions. Don't let the lower-income population continue to be oppressed," said the man from Banyumas, Central Java.
Rahmat's colleague, Dadang, stated that the One Piece flag will be removed on August 17, 2025, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia. "Ideally, when the flag is removed, there should also be a solution to this economic problem. Don't just listen, but follow through with action," said Dadang.
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