A pickup truck driver and vegetable vendor in Bantaeng, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, was slapped by a member of the Indonesian National Armed Forces for hanging the Japanese anime ‘One Piece’ Straw Hat Pirates flag on his vehicle.
The incident occurred last Thursday, sparking public debate after a video of it went viral on social media. In the video, the soldier questions the driver’s nationality while pointing at the flag, claiming it is a “Chinese flag,” before slapping the driver.
The victim’s older brother, Dandi Torik, said that his brother, Paldi, was preparing to deliver vegetables to the Sasaya station when he was unexpectedly stopped by the soldier at the entrance.
The family has reported the incident to the local command. Although the soldier involved proposed a reconciliation, the family insisted they would not sign any agreement unless he recorded a video publicly apologizing to the family and the public.
It is understood that some Indonesians have recently hung ‘One Piece’ pirate flags to express dissatisfaction with domestic issues, including protests against corruption, criticism of economic downturn, and social injustice.
This anime symbol, representing the spirit of rebellion and freedom, has stirred controversy in Indonesia: supporters see it as a form of free expression, but critics argue it is “inappropriate” and could easily lead to misunderstandings.