Bank Indonesia (BI) issued a special commemorative Rp 75,000 (US$ 5.08) bill to celebrate the country’s Independence Day.
Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati said the issuance of the new banknote was an expression of gratitude for the country’s independence, as well as a symbol of optimism in facing future challenges.
“[Bank Indonesia] did not issue the special currency notes to improve liquidity to fund [the country’s] economic activities. […] but to commemorate Indonesia 75th Independence Day and to express gratitude for the country’s independence.” Sri Mulyani said in an online press conference on Monday.
“I hope that the celebration of our country’s 75th will be a symbol of revival and optimism in facing these extraordinary challenges [brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic].”
The new bill bears the faces of the country’s first president and vice president, Sukarno and Muhammad Hatta.
The commemorative banknote also depicts Indonesia’s very first flag-hoisting ceremony during the country’s Declaration of Independence on Aug. 17, 1945, and several children wearing traditional attire. In addition, it features the country’s infrastructure achievements such as the Jakarta MRT, Papua’s Youtefa Bridge and the trans-Java toll road.
Sri Mulyani explained that BI had released 75 million pieces of the Rp 75,000 bill.
BI Governor Perry Warjiyo said the commemorative notes were enhanced with new security features to prevent counterfeiting.
“The new commemorative banknotes were also made with higher-quality papers so they would last longer,” Perry said.
He explained that on previous independence days, BI had issued three commemorative notes to celebrate the country’s 25th, 45th and 50th anniversaries.
Residents who have made the purchase can obtain their bill at BI branches across the country starting Aug 18. BI is limiting sales to one bill per customer.
Source: The Jakarta Post
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