Introduction

BlankOn is a free and open source operating system distribution that emerges from the Indonesian community with the goal of providing a fully localized, easy-to-use GNU/Linux experience. Over the years, BlankOn has grown into a vibrant project that not only adapts core technologies of Debian but also integrates Indonesian artistic values, language support, and cultural identity. In this article, we explore what BlankOn is, how it works, the orientation behind its development, and a variety of curiosities that distinguish it in the world of Linux distributions.

What Is BlankOn?

BlankOn is a Linux distribution based on the Debian stable branch, developed by the Indonesian Linux Mover Foundation (YPLI) and supported by PT. Intra Asia Media as well as an active community of volunteers. Its name is derived from “Blind All Know On,” expressing the project’s ambition to create an inclusive platform where users with different backgrounds can operate technology without barriers.

Core Characteristics

• Debian-Based: Leverages Debian’s package repository and security updates.
• Localization: Full Indonesian language support for desktop, installer, and documentation.
• Custom Artwork: Themes, wallpapers, and icons reflect Indonesian culture.
• Community-Driven: Developed and maintained by volunteers across Indonesia.

History of BlankOn

BlankOn’s journey began in 2004 when a group of Indonesian free software enthusiasts decided to create a distribution that would serve the local market better than generic international distros. The first official release, BlankOn 0.1 “Mambo,” was made available in 2005. Each major release has adopted a codename inspired by Indonesian regions, traditions, or languages, such as “Uluwatu,” “Parang,” and “Rote.”

Milestones

• 2005 – Initial version “Mambo” released.
• 2007 – Introduction of a graphical installer called Ubiquity.
• 2010 – BlankOn becomes fully Debian-compatible, adopting .deb packaging.
• 2015 – Establishment of a formal foundation to govern development.
• 2020 – Major UI overhaul and improved support for ARM architectures.

How BlankOn Works

BlankOn operates on the same fundamental principles as most Debian-based systems, but it introduces unique mechanisms to enhance localization and user experience.

Installation and Live Environment

BlankOn provides a Live desktop image that allows users to try the operating system without affecting their existing installations. The Live environment uses a customized version of the Calamares installer, which has been translated entirely into Bahasa Indonesia. During installation, the user can choose:

• Language and regional formats.
• Partitioning schemes (automatic or manual).
• Desktop environment preferences.
• User accounts and password settings.

Package Management

BlankOn relies on the Advanced Packaging Tool (APT) system provided by Debian. It uses apt-get, apt, and graphical frontends like Synaptic or GNOME Software for software installation, upgrades, and removals. The distribution maintains its own repositories for BlankOn-specific packages such as themes, fonts, and localized modules.

Repository Structure

Desktop Environments

BlankOn primarily ships with the XFCE desktop environment for its balance of performance and usability. Past releases have also experimented with GNOME, MATE, and LXDE to accommodate different hardware profiles. Each environment is pre-configured with local wallpaper sets and panel layouts tailored for Indonesian users.

Main Features

BlankOn distinguishes itself through a series of features focused on usability, localization, and community engagement:

• Fully Translated Interface: All system menus, dialogues, and help files are available in Bahasa Indonesia.
• Local Fonts and Keyboard Layouts: Supports regional scripts such as Javanese, Sundanese, and Balinese fonts out of the box.
• Custom Splash and Boot Screens: Each release carries a unique theme inspired by Indonesian art and culture.
• Educational Tools: Bundled with software like LibreOffice, GCompris, TuxPaint, and educational modules developed in collaboration with local schools.
• Hardware Compatibility: Optimized kernels and drivers for common Asian chipsets and laptop models.
• Privacy and Security: Includes firewall configuration tools, AppArmor profiles, and regular security updates synchronized with Debian’s stable branch.

Orientation and Target Audience

BlankOn is oriented toward three main groups:

Educational Institutions

• Preconfigured classroom deployment using LTSP (Linux Terminal Server Project).
• Interactive educational games and learning modules in local languages.
• Documentation and manuals tailored for teachers and students.

Government and Public Sector

• Emphasis on digital sovereignty: full compliance with open standards.
• Secure deployment guides for public offices.
• Support for local e-government applications and document formats.

General Home Users and Developers

• User-friendly installer and desktop experience.
• Preloaded media codecs, office suite, and internet applications.
• Developer tools such as GCC, Python, Perl, and IDEs like Geany.

Curiosities and Interesting Facts

BlankOn is more than just a software distribution it embodies the spirit of Indonesian culture and collaboration.

Codename Inspirations

Each major release is named after an Indonesian island, creature, or cultural heritage. For example:

• “Jerrang” – A species of frog found in Sulawesi.
• “Rote” – An island in the East Nusa Tenggara province.
• “Ujung Kulon” – Tribute to the national park in Banten, Java.

Art and Design

The visual identity of BlankOn is crafted by local graphic designers participating in community contests. Selected artworks are integrated into the default wallpaper, splash screen, and icon set, creating a strong sense of national pride.

Community Engagement

• Events and Workshops: Regular meetups in major cities like Jakarta, Bandung, and Yogyakarta.
• Online Forums: Active discussions in Bahasa Indonesia on technical support and feature requests.
• Translation Sprints: Volunteers gather to translate new software versions during “BlankOn Global Translation Day.”

Comparison with Other Distributions

The following table highlights key differences between BlankOn and other popular Debian-based distributions:

Conclusion

BlankOn represents a successful effort to fuse open source technology with local culture, language, and educational needs. By adopting Debian’s reliable base and contributing unique themes, fonts, and applications for Indonesian users, it showcases how a distribution can reflect a nation’s identity. Whether you are a student, a public servant, or a home user seeking an accessible and culturally resonant operating system, BlankOn delivers a compelling, community-backed solution.

Sources:

• https://blankonlinux.or.id
• https://www.debian.org