From Old Banten, True Independence Begins from the Ground Up

Banten Lama, August 17, 2025 — Citizens from across Banten gathered at the courtyard of Surosowan Palace Gate to solemnly commemorate the 80th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence. The modest yet meaningful atmosphere reflected a spirit rooted in cultural heritage and grassroots unity.

Mrs. Yemmelia, Chairperson of the Banten Genius Network (BGN), led the ceremony and charitable activities. She collaborated with traditional leaders, local communities, and the Banten Sultanate family to revive a participatory and grounded spirit of independence.

The 18th Sultan of Banten, RTB Hendra Bambang Wisanggeni Soerjaatmadja, MBA (Sultan Syarif Muhammad Ash-Shafiuddin), was present and delivered a stirring message that awakened collective awareness. He emphasized the importance of preserving the dignity of the nation amid modern challenges.

“Kindness is not weakness, and firmness is not hostility,” the Sultan affirmed. “Banten is a land that welcomes friends but stands firm against oppressors. The dignity of the nation is a non-negotiable matter of pride.”

🫱 Gerakan Mandiri & BGN: United for Change

Meanwhile, Dr. Yandra Doni, Advisor to BGN and Leader of GerakanMandiri.com, delivered a message that bridged historical legacy with the nation’s future direction. He called on the public to remember the role of the sultans in the fight for independence.

“As a great nation born from the unity of sultans who devoted themselves to the Republic of Indonesia, we must honor the sacrifices of kings from Sabang to Merauke who fought for our freedom,” said Dr. Yandra.

With this spirit, Gerakan Mandiri and BGN united their vision: to build Indonesia from the ground up. They promote citizen-led initiatives, strengthen local solidarity, and place cultural heritage at the heart of development.

🌱 From Surosowan Toward a Just and Prosperous Banten

Following the ceremony, BGN distributed aid to orphans as a gesture of gratitude for the blessings of independence. A traditional debus performance by the Banten Sultanate’s Laskar, led by KH. TB. Astari, captivated attendees and reaffirmed Banten’s unique cultural identity.

Mrs. Yemmelia also shared a hopeful vision for Banten’s future:

“To achieve a Just and Prosperous Banten, let us begin from Old Banten. If all descendants sit together in mutual respect, Banten’s glory will rise again.”

✊ True Independence Begins from the Ground Up

The people’s ceremony in Banten Lama was more than a ritual—it marked a new direction for development: by the people, from the people, and for the people. Gerakan Mandiri welcomed BGN as a partner in thought and action, recognizing that Indonesia is too vast to be standardized from the center.

With a spirit of togetherness and the courage to start from below, Banten showed that true independence is not just about the past—it’s about a future built collectively