Latest news with #79thIndependenceDay
The Star
2 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Plan to install stairlifts in Borobudur to welcome Macron draws controversy
Various religious leaders, along with Buddhist priests and monks, walking around the Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java, during a pradakshina ritual on Aug 17, 2024, to commemorate the 79th Independence Day. - Antara JAKARTA: The government's plan to install stairlifts and iron ramps at Borobudur, the world's largest Buddhist temple in Magelang, Central Java, ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit, has sparked concerns among the public. Many have taken to social media to express worries that the installation of the stairlift, which is typically used in homes to help people navigate stairs, could harm the structure of Borobudur, especially considering the damage to the ancient temple caused by overtourism in recent years. Hasan Nasbi, head of the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), said the stairlift was necessary to accommodate both President Macron and President Prabowo Subianto, arguing that climbing Borobudur's 12-tier stairway in formal attire during a brief official visit would be both impractical and exhausting. 'The French president has very limited time to visit Borobudur, unlike us, who can spend the entire day there during holidays. His schedule is packed, so the facility is necessary to save time,' Hasan said on Monday (May 26), as reported by Tribunnews. 'Besides, climbing 12 flights of stairs would leave both presidents sweating and their suits wrinkled, which is not ideal for a state visit,' he added. Hasan stated that the stairlift would be installed between the fifth and eighth levels of the temple. He also assured the public that the installation would follow strict conservation guidelines, with the Culture Ministry closely overseeing the project to ensure the temple's preservation. "There will be no nails or bolts; the stairlift will just be [...] positioned in place. Once the project is finished, it can be easily removed," he said, as reported by Antaranews. Culture Minister Fadli Zon stressed that the stairlift was necessary to improve accessibility at Borobudur, particularly for people with disabilities. "It's about inclusivity. Many iconic ancient sites have installed similar structures, including the Pantheon and the Acropolis in Greece, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica in Italy, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, as well as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China," he said as quoted by Kompas. Unesco recognises Borobudur as one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world, designating it a World Heritage site in 1991. The temple was constructed in the eighth and ninth centuries during the Syailendra dynasty. The main temple is a stupa built in three tiers around a hill. The structure consists of a pyramidal base with five concentric square terraces, the base a cone with three circular platforms and, at the top, a monumental stupa. On its circular platforms, the temple hosts 72 openwork stupas, each containing a statue of the Buddha. In recent years, the Borobudur Conservation Center has conducted research on the impact of tourism on the ancient structure. The findings revealed that constant foot traffic has eroded the temple's stone stairs, with some areas showing indentations up to 5cm deep. The centre also reported that acts of vandalism by visitors have contributed to further damage to the temple. Following these findings, the government introduced a daily limit of 1,200 visitors allowed to climb the temple in 2023 to help preserve its structure. Visitors are also required to wear special sandals called upanat, made from pandan leaves and coconut, with soles crafted from EVA foam to reduce friction while climbing the Borobudur stairs. Macron is scheduled to visit Indonesia from Wednesday to Thursday to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Paris and Jakarta. - The Jakarta Post/ANN
Jordan News
3 days ago
- Politics
- Jordan News
Momani: Independence Day celebrations reflect national unity - Jordan News
Minister of Government Communication Mohammad Momani has described Jordan's 79th Independence Day celebrations as a powerful expression of national unity, loyalty, and pride, emphasizing that the events went beyond mere festivities to embody the spirit of belonging that defines the Jordanian people. اضافة اعلان In a statement published on his official platforms, accompanied by a video capturing scenes from celebrations across the Kingdom, the minister expressed appreciation to all public and private institutions involved in organizing the events. He praised their behind-the-scenes efforts in presenting the national occasion in a manner worthy of Jordan's heritage and aspirations. The minister highlighted the role of national media, commending its professional and comprehensive coverage, which he said helped deliver the joy of the occasion into homes across the country. He noted that media coverage played a key role in accurately conveying the atmosphere on the ground. Security agencies were also recognized for their significant contribution, with the minister praising their professionalism and effectiveness in ensuring the smooth and safe execution of the events. Their efforts, he said, were instrumental in preserving public order during the nationwide celebrations. The statement also acknowledged the support of the private sector and community partners, whose sponsorships and initiatives contributed to the success of the occasion. The minister emphasized that such partnerships reflect a shared commitment to national values. Concluding his message, the minister thanked all Jordanians who took part in the celebrations, whether by attending events or raising the national flag. He noted that this popular engagement represents the core of national celebrations and affirms the collective pride in Jordan's independence.
Jordan News
3 days ago
- Politics
- Jordan News
Faraya: Those Who Undermine National Unity Are Enemies of the Homeland and Every Loyal Jordanian - Jordan News
Minister of Interior Mazen Al-Faraya on Monday sponsored the celebration organized by Jerash Private University on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. اضافة اعلان In his speech, Al-Faraya emphasized that independence is the fruit of a long struggle in which forefathers sacrificed dearly, enduring years of patience and resilience. He recalled the sacrifices made by Jordanian families, offering martyrs one after another for the sake of building a prosperous state, now wisely and capably led by His Majesty King Abdullah II. Al-Faraya highlighted the vital role of the Jordanian citizen in shaping and preserving independence, stating that the independent individual is the cornerstone of a cohesive society—one that understands that true belonging to the nation is only complete through giving, solidarity, empathy, responsibility, and genuine volunteerism. He stressed that a person's value is not measured by their name, lineage, or origin, but by what they achieve and contribute, and the positive impact they leave in their community and country. Al-Faraya pointed to the ongoing meaning of independence as the true launchpad for development, progress, and achievement. He noted that nearly every town across Jordan now enjoys public services like roads, water, electricity, schools, health centers, and sports facilities. As a result, the country has come to symbolize modernity, growth, and stability, becoming a destination for residents of other nations due to its secure and stable environment. On another note, Al-Faraya addressed the critical importance of national unity in reinforcing independence and strengthening the internal front. He stated that "whoever undermines national unity is an enemy of the homeland and every sincere Jordanian." In contrast, he affirmed that true, active citizenship is the foundation of achievement and the most genuine expression of independence. Standing behind the Hashemite leadership, he said, is the only path to overcoming challenges and securing the stability of the country. Marking the occasion, Al-Faraya expressed deep pride in the Jordanian Armed Forces and security agencies—Jordan's fortress and stronghold—and praised their essential role in preserving the achievements and values of independence. Finally, he extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to His Majesty King Abdullah II and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein bin Abdullah II on this cherished national occasion. (Petra)
Ammon
3 days ago
- Politics
- Ammon
Momani: Independence Day celebrations reflect national unity
Ammon News - Minister of Government Communication Mohammad Momani has described Jordan's 79th Independence Day celebrations as a powerful expression of national unity, loyalty, and pride, emphasizing that the events went beyond mere festivities to embody the spirit of belonging that defines the Jordanian people. In a statement published on his official platforms, accompanied by a video capturing scenes from celebrations across the Kingdom, the minister expressed appreciation to all public and private institutions involved in organizing the events. He praised their behind-the-scenes efforts in presenting the national occasion in a manner worthy of Jordan's heritage and aspirations. The minister highlighted the role of national media, commending its professional and comprehensive coverage, which he said helped deliver the joy of the occasion into homes across the country. He noted that media coverage played a key role in accurately conveying the atmosphere on the ground. Security agencies were also recognized for their significant contribution, with the minister praising their professionalism and effectiveness in ensuring the smooth and safe execution of the events. Their efforts, he said, were instrumental in preserving public order during the nationwide celebrations. The statement also acknowledged the support of the private sector and community partners, whose sponsorships and initiatives contributed to the success of the occasion. The minister emphasized that such partnerships reflect a shared commitment to national values. Concluding his message, the minister thanked all Jordanians who took part in the celebrations, whether by attending events or raising the national flag. He noted that this popular engagement represents the core of national celebrations and affirms the collective pride in Jordan's independence. Petra
Jordan News
4 days ago
- Politics
- Jordan News
Jordan's 79th Independence Day: A Celebration of Restoring the Jordanian National Identity - Jordan News
I deliberately delayed writing about Jordan's 79th Independence Day celebrations, choosing instead to observe how Jordanians truly engaged with this national occasion. From the streets and public squares to universities, institutions, and social media platforms, the atmosphere deserved careful reflection—far from the routine phrases and clichés that often accompany such commemorations. اضافة اعلان Observers across journalism, politics, and public opinion agree: this year's celebrations were extraordinary—both in quantity and quality. The energy was electric, the participation massive. It felt less like a traditional holiday and more like a live reenactment of that pivotal moment in 1946 when Jordan declared its independence. The people didn't simply mark a date; they embraced a moment of national affirmation. Whether the result of top-level planning or grassroots momentum, the celebration struck a deep emotional chord with Jordanians. The spontaneous joy, children donning traditional dress, flags fluttering from balconies and cars, and patriotic chants echoed across neighborhoods—all painted a picture of a people proudly reclaiming their national spirit. What stood out this year wasn't just a commemoration of independence—it was the recovery of a national identity some had tried to dilute. Certain toxic narratives had attempted to weaken Jordanians' sense of belonging, but this year's celebration was a collective declaration: our identity is not up for debate. It was as though Jordanians were reclaiming their voice, their pride, and their legacy from those who sought to erase it under the guise of false narratives and borrowed ideologies. Jordanian institutions—security, media, and cultural—have played a vital role in revealing and countering efforts to disrupt the national fabric. Jordanians now see things clearly, through their own eyes—not through filtered lenses. And so, when they celebrated, they celebrated with awareness first, and independence second. They celebrated a country that stood firm in a turbulent region, led by a leadership that has skillfully navigated countless challenges. Today, in this age of heightened national consciousness, Jordanians no longer pay attention to those who question their right to rejoice. Those voices—often loyal to foreign agendas—have been exposed. Jordanians see through the contradiction: those who attack national pride are often the loudest in celebrating foreign causes, even those openly hostile to Jordan. This duplicity no longer deceives the Jordanian citizen, who now proudly embraces his identity, his heritage, and his flag. This Independence Day was not just a celebration of sovereignty—it was a celebration of clarity, resilience, and self-worth. So rejoice, Jordanians—rejoice with pride and without restraint. No one deserves joy more than you. You have protected this nation with consciousness and loyalty. You didn't inherit a ready-made country; you built it, protected it, and carried it forward through hardship and hope. Raise your flags high, sing for your homeland, and cherish your leadership. You've earned this joy—and may your days be filled with celebration, always.
