National emblem of Indonesia

National emblem of Indonesia Garuda Pancasila

The National emblem of Indonesia is called the Garuda Pancasila. It features the mythical bird Garuda with a shield on its chest and a scroll gripped by its legs. The scroll contains the national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, which means "Unity in Diversity."

Design

The Garuda is a large, mythical bird-like creature that appears in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology. In the Indonesian emblem, the Garuda has 17 feathers on each wing, 8 on the tail, and 45 on the neck, symbolizing the date of Indonesia's independence on August 17, 1945.

Shield

The shield on the Garuda's chest is divided into five sections, each representing one of the Pancasila principles:

• The star in the center represents Belief in the One and Only God.
• The chain symbolizes Just and Civilized Humanity.
• The banyan tree stands for The Unity of Indonesia.
• The bull's head represents Democracy Guided by the Inner Wisdom in the Unanimity Arising Out of Deliberations Amongst Representatives.
• The rice and cotton represent Social Justice for the Whole of the People of Indonesia.

Motto

The national motto, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, is written on a scroll held by the Garuda's legs. This Old Javanese phrase translates to "Unity in Diversity," reflecting the diverse cultures, languages, and religions of Indonesia.

History

The design of the Garuda Pancasila was created by Sultan Hamid II of Pontianak and was adopted as the national emblem on February 11, 1950. The emblem was officially introduced by President Sukarno.

Symbolism

The Garuda symbolizes strength and power, while the shield represents self-defense and protection. The five sections of the shield symbolize the five principles of Pancasila, the philosophical foundation of the Indonesian state.

Usage

The Garuda Pancasila is used in various official capacities, including on the Presidential Standard, government documents, and the national currency. It is also featured prominently in government buildings and institutions.

See also

• Flag of Indonesia
• Pancasila
• Proclamation of Indonesian Independence
• Garuda
• Bhinneka Tunggal Ika