Indonesia and Monaco may sit on opposite ends of the globe, but one peculiar similarity ties them together, their flags. At first glance, the two flags look identical: red on top, white on the bottom, both in a simple horizontal layout. But behind that visual resemblance lies a tale of different histories, cultures, and national identities.
Let’s start with a quick look at the two countries. Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic state, home to over 17,000 islands and rich with ethnic, cultural, and linguistic diversity. It’s a democratic country known for its batik traditions, vibrant cuisine, and natural wonders, from Komodo dragons to volcanoes.
Meanwhile, Monaco is a sovereign city-state nestled on the French Riviera. It’s the second smallest country in the world, but one of the richest. Known for its monarchy, Formula 1 Grand Prix, luxurious casinos, and tax-friendly policies, Monaco is a hotspot for the global elite.
Indonesia: A Flag Born of Revolution
Indonesia’s red-and-white flag was officially adopted on August 17, 1945, the day it declared independence from Dutch colonial rule. The flag, known locally as "Sang Merah Putih," draws inspiration from the ancient Majapahit Empire, which used a similar color scheme in the 13th century.
Red symbolizes courage, while white stands for purity. Together, they reflect the spirit of resistance and unity that fueled Indonesia’s fight for independence.
The flag quickly became a symbol of national pride and identity for millions across the archipelago.
Monaco: A Royal Legacy of Red and White
Monaco’s use of red and white dates all the way back to the year 1297, during the establishment of the ruling Grimaldi dynasty. The design was officially adopted as the national flag in 1881 under Prince Charles III. The flag’s colors are derived from the House of Grimaldi’s heraldic symbols.
Monaco, despite its size, has always emphasized its sovereignty. The red and white flag became a statement of identity, representing the principality’s history, independence, and royal lineage.
Today, it is flown across the tiny country’s landmarks, including the famous Monte Carlo Casino and Prince’s Palace.
Are the Flags Identical?
Visually, yes almost. But if you look closer, Monaco’s flag has slightly different proportions. Indonesia’s flag has a 2:3 ratio, while Monaco’s is shorter and squarer, with a 4:5 ratio.
Aside from that, they are nearly indistinguishable. Interestingly, when Indonesia adopted its flag in 1945, Monaco did not protest.
In 1945, Indonesia’s independence movement took global precedence, and perhaps the visual similarity was viewed more as a coincidence than a copyright issue. Both countries have since coexisted peacefully with their shared color identity.
What’s in a Flag?
While it might be tempting to assume one copied the other, national flags are more than just design, they carry stories, struggles, and identities. For Indonesia, the red and white flag is a symbol of hard-won freedom. For Monaco, it represents a long-standing royal legacy.
So, the next time you see one of these two flags, remember: they may look the same, but they fly for very different reasons.
Which flag came first? Technically, Monaco. But which one carries the weight of revolution and the dreams of 270 million people? That’s a fun fact worth sharing.
