Commemorating the Birth of Pancasila: The Eternal Foundation of Indonesia

Celebrating the Birth of Pancasila: 75 Years of Unity, Humanity, and Justice

Every year on June 1st, the people of Indonesia commemorate the Birth of Pancasila—a moment filled with patriotism, reflection, and reverence for the values that form the foundation of the nation. In 2024, we proudly celebrate the 75th anniversary of Pancasila, a major milestone in Indonesian history that has guided the nation’s journey for decades.

Tracing the Historical Roots of Pancasila

Pancasila, as the ideological foundation of Indonesia, did not emerge overnight. It was the product of deep contemplation, intense discussion, and visionary thinking by the country’s founding fathers.
Its formulation began with Sukarno’s speech during the session of the Investigating Committee for Preparatory Work for Indonesian Independence (BPUPKI) on June 1st, 1945. This marked the birth of Pancasila as the state’s foundational philosophy and a national ideology recognized and embraced by all.

The Five Pillars of Pancasila

Pancasila—literally meaning "Five Principles"—consists of five core values that form the ideological basis of the Indonesian nation:

1. Belief in the One and Only God: Acknowledging the presence of a Supreme Being as the moral compass in national and civic life.

2. Just and Civilized Humanity: Striving for a fair and prosperous society, rooted in diversity and equality without discrimination.

3. The Unity of Indonesia: Preserving national unity and integrity, resisting all forms of division and separatism.

4. Democracy Guided by the Inner Wisdom of Deliberations Among Representatives: Building a democratic state grounded in the sovereignty of the people and collective consensus.

5. Social Justice for All the People of Indonesia: Ensuring equity in all aspects of life, including wealth distribution, education, and opportunity.
   
   

A Living and Evolving Legacy

Although Pancasila was formulated decades ago, its meaning and relevance continue to evolve in response to the changing times. It is not a static doctrine, but a flexible guide that can be adapted to modern-day challenges and demands.

In the face of global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change, the principles of Pancasila provide a strong moral and strategic foundation for the nation to respond wisely and inclusively. Just and civilized humanity encourages us to protect public health and collective welfare, while democracy guided by wisdom reminds us to listen to the people’s voice and make decisions rooted in data and the public interest.

Honoring the Legacy, Shaping the Future

Commemorating the Birth of Pancasila is an opportunity to reflect on the noble legacy of Indonesia’s founding figures and to reaffirm our collective commitment to uphold and advance the values of Pancasila in today’s ever-changing world.

Every citizen—regardless of background or social status—has a role to play in being an agent of change who promotes unity, justice, and progress for all. As a diverse nation, our strength lies in our pluralism. And within that diversity, Pancasila stands as the bond that unites us as one nation, one homeland, and one shared aspiration.

Let us celebrate the Birth of Pancasila with pride and a renewed commitment to make these noble values the guiding light of our journey as the great nation of Indonesia.