Brilio.net - The Flag Raising Troops (Paskibraka) are a group of selected youths whose main task is to raise the red and white flag at the Indonesian Independence Day ceremony every August 17. As a symbol of national unity, Paskibraka members are expected to reflect the values of unity and togetherness in all aspects, including in terms of appearance and uniforms. However, recently there has been a controversy regarding female Paskibraka members who are required to remove their headscarves for the sake of uniformity.
The controversy began with the statement of the Head of the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP), Yudian Wahyudi, who explained that several female Paskibraka members had to remove their hijabs. According to Yudian, this decision aims to prioritize the values of uniformity in flag raising, in accordance with the spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika carried by Ir. Sukarno.
photo: Pixabay.com
"From the beginning, Paskibraka was formed with a uniform spirit," said Yudian in a press conference at the National Police Residence in the Indonesian Capital, East Kalimantan, Wednesday (14/8), as quoted by Antara. The decision to standardize the dress code and appearance of Paskibraka members is stated in the Circular of the Deputy for Training Number 1 of 2024, which does not mention the option of wearing a hijab for members who wear the hijab.
Yudian added that the removal of the hijab was done voluntarily by the Paskibraka members concerned. Previously, the members had signed a statement of willingness to comply with the regulation on a stamp, which signified a binding legal commitment.
"This rule only applies during state ceremonies, including the inauguration and flag raising on August 17," explained Yudian.
In further explanation, Yudian stated that the uniformity in this clothing is a reflection of the values of unity upheld by Paskibraka as a troop symbol of unity in diversity.
Uniform rules for female flag raising team members.
photo: Twitter/@Sam_Ardi
Based on the Decree of the Head of BPIP Number 35 of 2024, female Paskibraka members are required to wear a uniform consisting of a five-centimeter skirt below the knee, a white long-sleeved shirt, and socks up to the knee. This uniform is also equipped with a red and white neckband, white gloves, black loafers, and a green proficiency mark or kendit worn during the inauguration.
In addition, other attributes such as peci, Garuda Pancasila pin, Paskibraka corps symbol, leadership badge, and nameplate are also part of the uniform. In the picture, there is no option for a female Paskibraka uniform wearing a hijab.
Complete procedures for Paskibraka clothing.
photo: Twitter/@Sam_Ardi
The Paskibraka dress code is regulated in detail in the Decree of the Head of BPIP Number 35 of 2024. This rule covers various aspects of appearance ranging from clothing, attributes, to the attitude of Paskibraka members. This provision aims to ensure the uniformity and neatness of all members in carrying out state duties.
The following are details of the Paskibraka clothing procedures:
1. The male Paskibraka wears long trousers and a white long-sleeved shirt.
2. The female Paskibraka wears a skirt five centimeters below the knee, a white long-sleeved shirt, and socks up to the knee.
Completeness of the uniform and attributes of the flag-raising team:
- Red and white neck armband
- White gloves
- White socks
- Black loafers
- Green Proficiency/Certificate Mark (at confirmation)
- Peci, Garuda Pancasila Pin, Paskibraka Corps emblem, Green Garuda Red and White Leadership Badge, Regional name and emblem, Nameplate, and Epaulet
The flag bearer's attitude:
- Cleanliness and neatness of body and clothing
- Hair is shaved neatly to a certain length, without coloring.
- The male Paskibraka is prohibited from growing sideburns, beards, moustaches, bangs and ponytails.
- The female Paskibraka team wears natural, unobtrusive make-up with natural colors.
- Nails are short, neat and not colored.