Discover why August 18 is a public holiday in Indonesia. Learn about the significance of this national holiday, its connection to Independence Day, and what it means for workers and businesses.
August 18 National Holiday in Indonesia: Explained
Is August 18 a public holiday in Indonesia? Yes, but only in certain years. In 2025, August 18 is officially designated as a national collective leave day (Cuti Bersama), which means it’s a non-working day for most employees across the country.
This date falls right after Indonesian Independence Day, which is celebrated every August 17, and is often used to create a long weekend or "libur panjang" to boost domestic tourism and provide extra rest time for citizens.
The Significance of August 18 as a National Holiday
While August 17 marks Indonesia’s Proclamation of Independence in 1945, the following day, August 18, also holds historical importance. On August 18, 1945, Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution (UUD 1945) was officially adopted, and Sukarno was elected as the first President of Indonesia.
However, August 18 is not celebrated every year as a fixed public holiday. Its status depends on the government’s annual decision to schedule collective leave days. In 2025, August 18 falls on a Monday, making it a strategic day off to extend the Independence Day weekend.
What Is a "Cuti Bersama"?
The term "Cuti Bersama" means joint or collective leave, which is typically announced by the Indonesian government in coordination with national holidays. These days are intended to:
Promote family time and work-life balance
Support the tourism industry
Reduce mid-week holiday disruptions to productivity
For 2025, August 18 has been included in the official national holiday calendar as a Cuti Bersama, giving many workers a full long weekend from Saturday (August 16) to Monday (August 18).
What to Expect on August 18, 2025
Government offices and most private companies will be closed
Banks may offer limited services
Public transportation and tourist destinations may experience higher traffic
Shops, restaurants, and malls will likely remain open and may run special Independence Day promotions
August 18, 2025, is more than just a day off in Indonesia. As a collective leave day following Independence Day, it provides an opportunity for Indonesians to reflect on the nation's history while enjoying time with family and friends. Whether you're planning a short trip or simply relaxing at home, this long weekend is a great time to recharge and celebrate the country's freedom.