Jakarta, Aug. 17 -- President Prabowo Subianto led Indonesia's 80th Independence Day ceremony for the first time as head of state on Sunday morning, reading the historic 1945 Proclamation of Independence at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta.

Wearing traditional beskap attire with a draped cloth around his waist, Prabowo solemnly recited the declaration: "We, the people of Indonesia, hereby declare the independence of Indonesia. Matters concerning the transfer of power, etc., will be carried out in a conscientious manner and as speedily as possible."

Following the proclamation text reading, the ceremony continued with a moment of silence and a prayer session. The national heritage flag hoisting troop (Paskibraka) then marched into the Merdeka Pa...