Fulfill the Last Wish of the Late Gusti, A Series of Comedians and Artists Hold a Flag Lowering Ceremony

Ustaz Alfie Alfandi, who also served as an officer for the ceremony, revealed that this plan has been in place for a long time and is part of the final plan of the late friend before passing away. Furthermore, the preacher explained how he was invited to join this special moment.

"This event is indeed something we, they have planned for a long time. Then coincidentally they said, 'Fie, do you want to join?' 'What is this?' 'We are having a flag lowering ceremony and in the evening we will listen to the works of our friend, the late Gusti'," said Ustaz Alfie Alfandi when met at the location.

Upon hearing the noble purpose behind the event, Ustaz Alfie admitted that he did not take long to give his approval. For him, this is a calling to honor his friend's good intentions while also being involved in a sacred moment. Without hesitation, the preacher, who is also an actor, immediately agreed to the invitation.

"Not saying to think again, just say, 'Oh, yes'. No waiting, no. 'Yes'. Just okay then. Because this first event is sacred, when else will we wear clothes like this. And when else will we be with them really seriously, right?" he continued.

In this ceremony, Ustaz Alfie Alfandi had a special task as the prayer reader. However, he was not the only big name involved. A series of other famous comedians and artists also played important roles, such as Boris Bokir as the ceremony leader, Awwe as the ceremony inspector, Danilla Riyadi as the host, and Bene Dion and Yono Bakrie serving as platoon commanders. Ustaz Alfie mentioned that he initially was going to read a poem.

"Initially, I was going to read a poem, but that's not possible, right? Because the 17th competition has already passed. So I just read a prayer. So, that's it, reading a prayer, the prayer is long," he explained jokingly.

On the other hand, the participation of comedian Yono Bakrie adds a unique color to this ceremony. Being his first experience, Yono admitted to feeling quite nervous but tried to remain professional after several rehearsals. This comedian, a graduate of SUCI X, also shared stories about his preparations, which he had apparently done several times.

"We have practiced three times. The Ustaz just reads the prayer, he doesn’t need to rehearse, it’s indeed a duty. As humans, we pray every day," said Yono, who was then responded to by Ustaz Alfie.

This activity is indeed a concept initiated directly by the late Gusti before he passed away. In addition to the flag ceremony, the late also had other wishes that are currently being pursued to be realized by his friends. Ustaz Alfie confirmed that this is one of the two major wishes of the late.

"They said this event was indeed conceived earlier because it was what the late one wanted, right? Yes, it was what Gusti wanted. Gusti wanted this and wanted the recitation, but not that. Oh, is that so? So hopefully the recitation will go on after this, insyaallah," said Ustaz Alfie.

More than just a ceremony, this event serves as a reminder of sincere friendship and national spirit. After the flag-lowering ceremony, all participants present will also watch a video of a speech by the late Gusti. Through this moment, Ustaz Alfie Alfandi expressed a great hope for the unity of Indonesia in the future.

"I hope we all become more solid, Indonesia to unite, no more divisions. May Indonesia become healthier and stronger," was his message.

As a closing, Ustaz Alfie Alfandi also did not forget to offer the best prayers for his beloved friend who has inspired this event. He hopes the deceased finds the best place by His side. With a sincere voice, he conveyed his prayer. 

"For all our friends, beyond the issue of independence, for Gusti, may you rest peacefully there," he concluded.