President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo presided over the 71st anniversary ceremony for the National Police at the National Monument in Central Jakarta on Monday.

President Jokowi, accompanied by First Lady Iriana Joko Widodo, Vice President Jusuf Kalla and Kalla’s wife Mufidah Jusuf Kalla, arrived at the National Monument at 8 a.m.

Unlike last year’s celebration, which was held at the Mobile Brigade Command headquarters, this year’s ceremony was open to the general public.

“This year, the ceremony is being held here [at the National Monument] to bring us closer to the public so that they can join in the celebration,” National Police spokesperson Insp. Gen. Setyo Wasisto said.

The National Police anniversary actually fell on July 1, but the celebration was delayed to July 10 since most police officers were busy safeguarding the Idul Fitri holidays.

More than 2,400 personnel from the National Police, the Indonesian Military, the Public Order Agency and the Indonesian Scout Movement took part in the ceremony.

The ceremony was enlivened by a mass dance with the theme of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (unity in diversity), skydiving and a marching band.

During the ceremony, the President awarded Bintang Bhayangkara Narariya stars to four police officers for their excellent service. (ecn/dmr)

Editor: Dessy Rosalina