Gov't invites public to join Merdeka Run 2026Related news: Indonesia to hold free Merdeka Run for 81st Independence DayRelated news: Erick Thohir invites public to join Merdeka Run 2026Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Youth and Sports has invited people to take part in Merdeka Run 2026, with registration opening on Wednesday (Aug 12).According to an official statement from the ministry cited in Jakarta on Tuesday, the Merdeka Run event is held to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesia's independence.Registration will open at 5 p.m. local time through the event's official website www.merdekarun.id.The race, themed "Bangun, Bergerak, Merdeka" (Rise, Move, Be Free), will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026. Participants will run an 8-kilometer course, starting in front of Merdeka Palace in Jakarta.The event will also feature MSME booths, a culinary festival, a drone show, and musical performances. "This is certainly thanks to Indonesians who continue to be creative. Merdeka Run is also part of our effort to strengthen collaboration," the minister said.Despite the run being primarily intended for Indonesian citizens, however, organizers remain open to foreign nationals who wish to participate, demonstrating that Indonesians are an open society engaged with the global community. Translator: Bayu PrasetyoEditor: Azis KurmalaCopyright © ANTARA 2026