Fighting Forgetfulness - The History of the Birth of Pancasila as the State Foundation

Summary

This video delves into the historical significance of Pancasila, the foundational philosophy of Indonesia, originating from Soekarno’s speech on June 1, 1945. The speech laid the groundwork for Indonesia’s state ideology, which was later adopted as the basis for the country’s formation. Pancasila’s five principles have evolved through discussions during the BPUPKI sessions, culminating in the Jakarta Charter. The video also highlights key moments, such as the transition from BPUPKI to PPKI and the eventual declaration of Indonesian independence. June 1 is commemorated annually as the birthday of Pancasila, marking a crucial moment in Indonesia’s journey toward independence.

Takeaways

• 😀 Soekarno's speech on June 1, 1945, introduced Pancasila as the foundation of Indonesia's state.
• 😀 June 1 is now commemorated annually as the 'birthday of Pancasila' to honor this historical moment.
• 😀 Pancasila was derived from the Sanskrit words 'Panca' (five) and 'Sila' (principles), meaning the five guiding principles of the state.
• 😀 The principles of Pancasila were debated and finalized during the BPUPKI sessions, marking the beginning of Indonesia's state foundation.
• 😀 Pancasila has roots in ancient Indonesian texts like the *Negarakertagama* and *Sutasoma* from the Majapahit era.
• 😀 Soekarno proposed versions of Pancasila, such as Trisila (three principles) and Ekasila (one principle), before finalizing the five principles.
• 😀 Trisila focused on social nationalism, socio-democracy, and divinity, while Ekasila emphasized mutual cooperation as the core value.
• 😀 The Jakarta Charter of June 22, 1945, formulated Indonesia’s foundational principles, which later became the basis of the 1945 Constitution.
• 😀 Pancasila's formulation was revised during the preparation for Indonesia’s independence, ensuring inclusivity for all religions.
• 😀 The official recognition of June 1 as Pancasila’s birthday came through Presidential Decree No. 24 in 2016, honoring its historical significance.

Q & A

What is the significance of June 1, 1945, in Indonesian history?

June 1, 1945, is significant because it marks Soekarno's speech at the first BPUPKI session, where he introduced Pancasila as the foundation of the Indonesian state. This day is now commemorated annually as the 'Birthday of Pancasila.'

What does the term 'Pancasila' mean?

The term 'Pancasila' comes from two Sanskrit words: 'Panca' meaning 'five' and 'Sila' meaning 'principles' or 'foundations.' It refers to the five principles that form the ideological foundation of the Indonesian state.

How does Pancasila relate to the opening of the 1945 Constitution?

Pancasila is enshrined in the opening paragraph of the 1945 Constitution as the foundation of the Republic of Indonesia. It consists of five precepts that guide the state's governance and its people.

What was discussed during the first BPUPKI session in 1945?

During the first BPUPKI session from May 29 to June 1, 1945, discussions focused on the future form of the Indonesian state and the principles that would guide it. Soekarno proposed the idea of Pancasila as a foundational principle.

Who were the key figures involved in formulating Pancasila?

Key figures in formulating Pancasila included Soekarno, Muhammad Yamin, and Professor Soepomo, who contributed various proposals for the foundation of the state.

What were the alternative formulations of Pancasila presented by Soekarno?

Soekarno initially proposed two alternative formulations for the foundation of the state: Trisila (three principles: social nationalism, socio-democracy, and divinity) and Ekasila (mutual cooperation).

What is the Jakarta Charter and what role did it play in the formation of Pancasila?

The Jakarta Charter, drafted on June 22, 1945, was a collective formulation of the Basic State of Indonesia. It included a version of Pancasila with slight differences from the final formulation, notably the inclusion of Islamic law in the first precept.

Why was the first precept of Pancasila revised during the PPKI session in 1945?

The first precept was revised to ensure it reflected the diverse religious views of Indonesia, especially the concerns of adherents of religions other than Islam in Eastern Indonesia. The revision removed the obligation to carry out Islamic law for its adherents.

How did Soekarno propose to commemorate the birth of Pancasila?

In 1964, Soekarno proposed June 1 as a national holiday to commemorate the birth of Pancasila. This was officially recognized by the Indonesian government in Presidential Decree No. 24 of 2016.

What is the role of Pancasila in Indonesia's state ideology?

Pancasila serves as the foundation for the Indonesian state, guiding its governance and reflecting the nation's commitment to unity, democracy, social justice, and respect for divine values. It shapes the ethical and political framework of Indonesia's society.