Regional Autonomy Day (Hari Otonomi Daerah) is observed in Indonesia every April 25 to highlight the country's democratic transition, specifically the transfer of authority, responsibilities, and resources from the central government to regional governments. Established by President Suharto in 1996 amidst rising opposition, the day was intended to promise future reforms, which did not materialize until the Reform Era began with Suharto's resignation in 1998. Significant democratic reforms between 1999 and 2002 led to the implementation of regional autonomy, allowing local governments in provinces, districts, and municipalities to govern in the interests of their populations, except in areas like defense and international relations. The structure of regional autonomy is non-hierarchical, with districts and municipalities becoming the primary administrative units. Additionally, nine provinces, including Aceh and Jakarta, possess special autonomous status, granting them unique rights not covered by the Law on Regional Governance. While Regional Autonomy Day is not a non-working holiday unless it coincides with a weekend, celebratory events may be held on nearby days off.