Commission I Member Urges TNI to Grow Closer to the People

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Syahrul Aidi Maazat, a member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has urged Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel to draw even closer to the people, including through food security programmes.

“We do not want this food security programme to remain solely within the TNI; it should also synergise with the community. I am confident the public will welcome it enthusiastically,” Syahrul said during a working visit to the 132/Bima Sakti Infantry Battalion in Kampar, Riau, on Monday, according to a statement received in Jakarta.

During the visit, he toured the battalion to observe the current situation and various programmes being implemented, particularly those related to food security. He appreciated the 132/Bima Sakti Infantry Battalion’s efforts to utilise battalion assets for food security.

“We saw aquaculture, livestock farming, horticulture, and secondary crops earlier. I also provided input based on experiences and public aspirations over time,” Syahrul stated.

“Praise be to God, we had the opportunity to dialogue with Mr Diyan Mantofani and his team regarding the current conditions, infantry functions, and successfully implementing government programmes amidst the community, especially since the TNI is very close to the people,” he added.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Diyan explained the battalion’s conditions. Ideally, the 132/Bima Sakti Infantry Battalion requires 700 personnel, comprising 30 officers, 121 non-commissioned officers, and 549 enlisted personnel.

“However, the realised number is 464 personnel, consisting of 16 officers, 60 non-commissioned officers, and 388 enlisted personnel. We still need 235 personnel, comprising 14 officers, 61 non-commissioned officers, and 161 enlisted personnel,” he said.

Given this situation, Diyan hopes for additional personnel in the near future. Additionally, he hopes for Commission I of the House of Representatives’ support to strengthen defence and security, so that the TNI’s presence can provide a sense of safety and comfort for the community.

“Thank you, Mr Syahrul Aidi. He has taken the initiative to visit the battalion, always inquiring about what needs his support as a Commission I member, so that the battalion’s presence aligns with the functions mandated by the state,” he remarked.