Defence Minister Offers Encouragement to Families of Soldiers Killed in Landslide

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin offered encouragement to the families of Marine soldiers who fell victim to a landslide in Cisarua, West Bandung.

The gesture was made when Sjafrie met with the families of 23 fallen soldiers at the Marine Corps Command Headquarters (Mako Kormar) in Central Jakarta on Wednesday (18/2).

In an official press release received on Thursday, it was explained that upon arriving at Mako Kormar, Sjafrie interacted directly with the soldiers’ families and conveyed his personal condolences.

An emotional atmosphere pervaded the meeting as Sjafrie provided moral support to the bereaved families.

In his address, Sjafrie affirmed that his presence represented the government, whilst also conveying regards and condolences from President of the Republic of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto to all families of the fallen soldiers.

Sjafrie also stated that the soldiers’ sacrifice represented the highest form of service to the nation, and that the state was therefore obliged to provide recognition and guarantees for the families left behind.

In addition to assistance previously provided, Sjafrie on behalf of the Ministry of Defence also handed over aid to all soldiers’ families on the occasion.

However, the press release did not specify the type of assistance given to the soldiers’ families.

With this assistance and support, Sjafrie expressed hope that the families of the fallen soldiers would be helped both mentally and economically.