Indonesia’s national flag is a simple horizontal bicolour of red above white. Known as the Sang Saka Merah Putih, it was formally adopted when Indonesia proclaimed independence in 1945.

What does the Indonesian flag look like?

The flag has two equal horizontal bands: red on top and white below. It is visually similar to the flag of Monaco, though the proportions differ.

Historical roots

Red and white have deep roots in the Indonesian archipelago and are often linked with banners used by the Majapahit Empire. Indonesian nationalists revived the colors in the twentieth century during the independence movement.

Modern adoption

The red-and-white flag was raised when Sukarno and Mohammad Hatta proclaimed independence on August 17, 1945. It has remained the national flag of Indonesia since then.

Indonesia flag facts

• Adopted: August 17, 1945
• Colors: red and white
• Common name: Sang Saka Merah Putih
• Similar flag: Monaco