Here’s Why Indonesia Changed its Passport Design from Green to a Red Colour, Similar to Malaysia’s

August is a pretty special month in Southeast Asia as 3 countries in the region celebrate their Independence Day this month, Singapore (9 August), Indonesia (17 August) and of course, Malaysia (31 August).

Speaking of which, Indonesia unveiled something special during its 79th Independence Day celebration on Saturday: A new passport design!

Indonesia introduces a new red coloured passport

Launched by the country’s Law and Human Rights Ministry via the Directorate General of Immigration during an official event, Indonesia’s new passport in a way syncs up the passport designs of all Southeast Asia countries having their Independence Days in August.

This is because Indonesia moved away from the greenish-blue colour of its passport cover to a red one, similar to the Malaysian and Singapore passports.

Watch the new design here:

The new passport design is meant to signify Indonesia’s identity and independence

Just so you know, the similar colours of the 3 nations are just coincidental.

As for the reasons why Indonesia changed the passport design, Jakarta Globe quoted Indonesian Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna H. Laoly as saying that the move was meant to reflect the red and white colour scheme of the country’s national flag; signifying Indonesia’s identity and independence.

Indonesia’s current (soon-to-be obsolete) passport

Furthermore, the new passport will only be issued starting next year, when Indonesia reaches a significant milestone of 80 years of independence.

Besides the new red-coloured cover, the new passport also incorporates 33 traditional Indonesian fabric motives on each page.

Moreover, the new passport also features a design adhering to International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, essentially making it more resistant to forgery.

So, what do you guys think of the new Indonesian passport design? Share your thoughts with us in the comments. 

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