One thousand deaf Indonesians recite independence proclamation in sign language at Yogyakarta ceremony
Around 1,000 members of Indonesia's deaf community gathered at Yogyakarta's symbolic Kilometer Zero to recite the nation's proclamation of independence in sign language, setting a national record while highlighting disability inclusion ahead of the country's 81st Independence Day.
Historic gathering at Yogyakarta's symbolic center
Around 1,000 members of Indonesia's deaf community gathered at Kilometer Zero in Yogyakarta on Wednesday to recite the nation's proclamation of independence in sign language, marking a symbolic gesture of inclusion ahead of the country's 81st Independence Day on August 17.
The event, organized by Diwa Foundation and titled "2026 Voice of Inclusion for All," took place at the symbolic heart of Yogyakarta city, where all distances in the region are traditionally measured. The historic location, surrounded by Dutch colonial buildings, provided a fitting backdrop for the ceremony that earned recognition from the Indonesian Museum of Records (MURI), which documents national achievements similar to Guinness World Records.
Vice Governor emphasizes significance of inclusion
Yogyakarta Vice Governor Paku Alam X, who holds his position through Yogyakarta's unique hereditary system as the 10th Duke of Pakualaman, emphasized that the event's significance extends beyond the record-setting achievement. "Today, we see the recitation of the independence proclamation in sign language by 1,000 members of the deaf community. This initiative should be appreciated by us all," he said.
The proclamation being recited was originally read by nationalist leader Sukarno at 10:00 a.m. on August 17, 1945, at his Jakarta residence, declaring Indonesia free from Dutch colonial rule. The text remains a cornerstone of Indonesian national identity, known locally as Hari Kemerdekaan or Tujuhbelasan.
Paku Alam X stressed that national progress is measured by how widely opportunities are extended to all citizens. "We want to emphasize that nationalism, the spirit of independence, and the opportunity to participate in society should be open to all people without exception," he stated, adding that the event demonstrates how words must translate into concrete action.
Context of disability demographics in Indonesia
The gathering carries particular significance given Indonesia's disability demographics. According to 2020 data from Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency, approximately 22.5 million people in the country live with disabilities, representing around 5% of the total population. In 2015, the agency identified almost 9 million Indonesians over age 10 who had difficulty hearing.
Message of universal human dignity
House of Representatives Commission IV Chair Siti Hediati Hariyadi, popularly known as Titiek Soeharto, described the event as delivering a message of universal human dignity. "Every child deserves an equal opportunity to study, work, and seek a better future. I hope what we proclaim from Yogyakarta can inspire others across Indonesia," she said.
Hariyadi praised the choice of Yogyakarta as the venue, noting the city's status as a cultural and educational hub. The Special Region operates under a unique governance structure formally recognized by Indonesian law, where the Sultan of Yogyakarta serves as Governor and the Duke of Pakualaman as Vice Governor, reflecting the area's distinctive position within the nation.
The ceremony underscored Indonesia's commitment to disability inclusion as the nation prepares to commemorate more than eight decades since its independence declaration.