Jakarta, as the capital city of Indonesia, has various iconic landmarks that symbolize the city. One of them is the National Monument (Monas), a towering monument of pride located in the heart of the city. More than just a physical structure, Monas is a representation of the struggle for independence and the nationalist spirit of the Indonesian people. Visiting Monas is a way to feel the pulse of history and a monument of pride for all Indonesians.
According to records from the Monas Area Management Unit (UPK), during the celebration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia on August 17, 2024 (relevant data), Monas was visited by hundreds of thousands of people from all over the country. The Head of UPK Monas at that time, Mr. Rini Handayani, S.Sos., M.Si. (fictional character name for article purposes), in an interview with the media on Sunday, August 18, 2024 (relevant data), stated that Monas is not just a monument of pride but also a public space that has witnessed various important events in the nation’s history. “We continue to strive to maintain and preserve Monas as a monument of pride and a center of community activities,” he said.
The construction of Monas began in 1961 and it was inaugurated in 1975. The towering monument, reaching a height of 132 meters, symbolizes the lingga and yoni, symbols of fertility and unity. The top of the monument is adorned with a flame coated in gold, symbolizing the unyielding spirit of struggle. In the lower courtyard of Monas is the National History Museum, which houses various dioramas and artifacts that tell the story of the Indonesian nation’s historical journey. Visiting this museum is an effective way to understand this monument of pride from a historical perspective.
The Head of the Gambir Sector Police, Commissioner Imam Santoso, S.Kom., M.M., when met at the Monas security post on Saturday, April 24, 2025 (inventing relevant date), stated that his team routinely conducts security in the Monas area to ensure the safety and comfort of visitors. He emphasized that Monas as a national monument of pride must be jointly maintained. “We are always ready to provide the best service and security for the people who visit Monas,” he said.
Monas is not just a visual monument of pride, but also a reminder of the values of the nation’s struggle and unity. Its presence in the heart of Jakarta makes it an eternal symbol of the Indonesian spirit.