From Stations to Trains, Independence Day Celebrations Come Alive Through Kereta Merdeka
Train travel on Independence Day, August 17, 2026, will offer a different experience. Through Kereta Merdeka, the celebration of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia will begin from the moment passengers arrive at the station and continue throughout their journey.
A range of activities has been prepared to celebrate the occasion, including the display of a large Red and White flag above a train, competitions at several stations and dining cars, as well as the Merdeka Upgrade Kelas and Merdeka Makan programs for selected passengers.
One of the main activities will be the display of a Red and White flag above KA Argo Sindoro (KA 17) on the Semarang Tawang–Gambir route at 10:00 WIB on August 17, 2026. The activity is also planned as part of an attempt to break a MURI record.
The Independence Day celebration will also feature various competitions open to the public at 14 stations: Gambir, Bandung, Cirebon, Yogyakarta, Semarang Tawang, Purwokerto, Madiun, Surabaya Gubeng, Surabaya Pasarturi, Jember, Kertapati, Medan, Padang, and Tanjung Karang.
The festive atmosphere will not only be found at stations but will also continue onboard the trains. Various activities will take place in the dining cars of KA Argo Dwipangga (KA 16), KA Argo Wilis (KA 10), KA Argo Sindoro (KA 17), KA Taksaka (KA 43), and KA Argo Bromo Anggrek (KA 1).
In addition to the competitions, KAI has also prepared the Merdeka Upgrade Kelas and Merdeka Makan programs. A number of selected passengers will have the opportunity to receive a service class upgrade and complimentary meals during their journey.
The entire Kereta Merdeka program is designed to provide a more memorable travel experience on August 17. The activities also give passengers the opportunity to enjoy Independence Day traditions that have become a familiar part of community life, in a warm atmosphere filled with togetherness and national spirit.
Through Kereta Merdeka, the celebration of the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia will be present in various cities and onboard train journeys, bringing the spirit of the Red and White, togetherness, and joy to people celebrating Independence Day.