BNPT Focuses on Building Community Resilience Against Radical Ideologies

The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) is focusing on building community resilience to prevent exposure to radical ideologies amid the changing landscape of terrorist threats. BNPT Head Eddy Hartono stated that the evolution of threats necessitates an adaptive approach, where building societal resilience is now as crucial as preventing terrorist acts. He noted that Indonesian children and teenagers are increasingly vulnerable in a world where extremist propaganda, hate speech, and recruitment often occur in the digital realm rather than physical spaces. ‘Amid the development of digital technology, the form of threats continues to change, becoming more adaptive and persistent,’ he said.

Marking its 16th anniversary with the theme ‘Collaboration to Protect Indonesia’, BNPT emphasised that safeguarding the nation from radicalism and terrorism is a shared responsibility beyond just state apparatus. Eddy explained that the agency has developed prevention strategies involving ministries, local governments, academics, religious leaders, businesses, media, and communities. These collaborative efforts are channelled through initiatives such as Peace Schools, National Insight Campuses, and Alert Villages.

The agency is also integrating counter-radicalisation efforts with socio-economic empowerment. Eddy cited a programme in Cirebon Regency where an Alert Village developed a biofloc fish farming business, creating economic opportunities while strengthening social cohesion. Similarly, in Menes, Pandeglang Regency, BNPT collaborated with PLN Indonesia Power to establish a workshop producing paving blocks from fly ash and bottom ash (FABA) waste. ‘Improved economic resilience is expected to reduce the space for radical groups to grow, as they often exploit social vulnerabilities,’ Eddy stated.

Eddy stressed that the digital space requires serious attention, as social media has become the primary channel for extremist propaganda. He highlighted the importance of equipping the public with critical thinking skills, information verification abilities, and a strong sense of national identity. After 16 years, BNPT’s approach has evolved from a purely security-oriented stance to one that integrates collaboration, education, and community empowerment, ensuring citizens can live safely and are protected from the influence of violent ideologies.