BNPT Bolsters Security Preparedness for Power Plants in Riau Islands
The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) is increasing security preparedness for power plants in the Riau Islands to protect the public from disruptions to energy services.
During a socialisation and security system assessment activity in Tanjung Pinang, Kepulauan Riau, on Tuesday (23/6), BNPT Head Eddy Hartono stressed that power plants are strategic infrastructure supporting community activities and national development. “Therefore, the security system must be continuously strengthened comprehensively,” Eddy stated.
He noted that the Unit Bisnis Pembangkitan (UBP) managed by PLN Indonesia Power must be taken seriously. BNPT continues to strengthen national preparedness through the security of vital strategic objects, one of which is the electricity sector. This effort is undertaken to ensure energy services for the public remain safe and undisturbed by various potential threats, including criminal acts of terrorism.
The BNPT Head explained that security strengthening targets not only facilities and infrastructure but also human resources through regular evaluation and improvement of personnel preparedness. “This evaluation covers mental and psychological aspects to ensure sterilisation and security from upstream to downstream,” he said.
Eddy reminded that threats to vital strategic objects continue to evolve, including through the use of technology and digital spaces. Therefore, a preventive approach through early detection, increased vigilance, and strengthening a security culture are important factors in maintaining national resilience.
Support for these preventive measures was also conveyed by Deputy Governor of Kepulauan Riau, Nyanyang Haris Pratamura. According to him, strengthening the prevention system is an important investment to create a sense of security and support regional development. He warmly welcomed BNPT’s steps in reinforcing the foundation of a comprehensive prevention system.
“An approach that prioritises early detection, increased vigilance, and strengthening community resilience is an important part of creating a safe, conducive environment that supports the sustainability of national development,” Nyanyang stated. He emphasised that the Kepulauan Riau Provincial Government is fully committed to overseeing counter-terrorism policies and work programmes in the region.
Meanwhile, Vice President of Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) at PLN Indonesia Power Head Office, Heri Kurniawan, said the assessment activity is an important momentum to improve security standards and preparedness within the power generation environment. Through BNPT’s presence, assessments can be conducted, capturing the real conditions on the ground and mapping which aspects are already good and which need improvement for a better future.
“We hope to obtain constructive input to strengthen security, improve personnel competence, tighten synergy with BNPT and the local government, while encouraging an increase in the level of national preparedness at power generation units in the future,” Heri expressed.
To date, more than 26 PLN Indonesia Power units have undergone the Minimum Security Standards Assessment in accordance with BNPT Regulation Number 3 of 2020 concerning Guidelines for the Protection of Strategic Vital Objects and Public Facilities in the Prevention of Criminal Acts of Terrorism. The strengthening of security for vital strategic objects is expected not only to increase national infrastructure resilience but also to provide a sense of security for the public so they can carry out daily activities calmly and productively.