Defence Bootcamp: Efforts to Strengthen Character and Resilience in Civil Society
A recent National Defence activity took place in the Hambalang area, Bogor, West Java. This national defence programme was attended by more than 500 business actors and professionals.
In this programme, participants underwent training in a semi-military pattern. They stayed in barracks, consumed military rations, and carried out daily activities with strict discipline. The materials provided included physical training, military games, and national sessions themed Love for the Homeland and Love for the TNI-Polri.
However, the programme did not focus solely on physical aspects. Mental and spiritual approaches were also important parts through congregational prayers and collective remembrance, to build comprehensive individual resilience.
Many of the participants are second-generation business actors who are currently facing various new challenges. From digital disruption, global economic pressures, to changes in market behaviour. In this context, strengthening character, discipline, and leadership is considered essential provisions in maintaining business sustainability.
The Commander of the TNI Peacekeeping Mission Maintenance Centre (PMPP), Major General TNI Iwan Bambang Setiawan, S.I.P., stated that the involvement of civil society in national defence programmes is becoming increasingly relevant amid the dynamics of global challenges.
“The threats we face today are not always physical in nature. Therefore, national defence needs to be interpreted more broadly, including through strengthening character and individual readiness,” he said.
In one session, participants also received direct accounts of experiences from the peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, providing a real picture of the field situation and the importance of mental readiness in facing crisis conditions.
In addition, participants were invited to reflect on the values of sacrifice through the story of the fall of Indonesian soldiers in that mission, which serves as a reminder of responsibilities as part of the nation.
Boundaries and Principles of National Defence for Civil Society
The TNI PMPP emphasised that the national defence programme for civil society must remain within the appropriate framework and not lead to militarisation.
“The approach is not militarisation, but building awareness, discipline, and responsibility as citizens,” explained Major General Iwan.
He added that an ideal national defence programme must be inclusive, educational, and relevant to the needs of the times, with a focus on preparedness to face non-military threats.