The Magnificence of the Sabang Merauke Exhibition, Presenting Various Indonesian Cultures in the Red and White Flag

The presentation of the differences in Indonesian culture in the form of regional songs and dances was strongly felt at the Sabang Merauke Exhibition.

However, once again, these differences were united under the embrace of the Red and White flag of Indonesia.

The Sabang Merauke Exhibition adopts a live performance concept that presents 22 songs, consisting of 21 regional songs and one national song, harmoniously arranged.

Six national singers, namely Kikan Namara as the music director and lead vocal, Mirabeth Sonia, Christine Tambunan, Taufan Purbo, Alsant Nababan, and young generation musician Swain Mahisa, were also involved in this performance.

The music sector is also becoming more enchanting with the presence of Batavia Madrigal Singers and 46 traditional and modern musicians.

Not to mention the presence of 144 professional dancers from Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Bali to Papua, who were choreographed by Sandhidea Cahyo Narpati, Pulung Jati, Dian Bokir, and Rizky Dafin, making this event even more harmonious.

The beauty of diversity is also shown through the colorful traditional costumes from each region that are showcased.

The Sabang Merauke performance was opened by Kikan's performance of two national songs, Ibu Pertiwi and Tanah Airku.

Afterwards, music and dance performances were presented alternately. As the name suggests, Sabang Merauke, songs, dances, and costumes from Aceh were showcased.

The beautiful performances of the songs Bungong Jeumpa and the dance Ratoh Jaroe were accompanied by spectacular arrangements and choreography.

Several songs, dances, and costumes from Sumatra Island were then presented. For example, the song Sik Sik Sibatumanikam. And the song Injit-Injit Semut featuring choreography by children.

Entering Java Island, Manuk Dadali from West Java became the opening. Ondel-Ondel, Yen In Tawang, Gugur Gunung are a series of repertoires that represent Java Island.

Ampar-Ampar Pisang, which is a culture of peace of the Dayak community, is presented very nicely.

At the end of the show, Kikan appeared singing Bendera, a song composed by Erros Sheila On 7 and popularized by the band Cokelat.

Since its release in 2001, this song has always been present in every celebration or activity that brings the name of the Indonesian nation, as well as a reminder that the Red and White flag is the umbrella of all struggles and the diversity of Indonesia.