Today, Indonesia is celebrating its 68 years of independence. Happy birthday, selamat ulang tahun Indonesia!

Though by law I am not an Indonesian anymore but in my heart I am still. There’s something special about 17 August for me. On this special day I feel closer to my origin country. I miss a bit more about my homeland, a place where I was born and grew up. I am longing for its chaos and madness and smell. I guess no matter how poor and or broken my country is, it still holds a special place and bitter-sweet memories of my childhood.

” Even though there are many countries I’ve been to

That people say so full of riches and beauty

But my country and my home

There, I find happiness

I will not forget my land

My homeland, I honour you”

( Tanah Airku – Ibu Sud )

Again, happy birthday Indonesia, may you be better, stronger, and make poverty history.