Defence Minister States TNI Must Participate in All Community-Related Activities

EAST BELITUNG, KOMPAS.com – Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has emphasised that TNI personnel must be involved in every activity related to the community.

He stressed that the Territorial Development Infantry Battalion (Yonif TP) must provide tangible benefits to the public. “The people must feel the benefits of your presence at this battalion headquarters. In all activities related to the people, you must participate,” Sjafrie said during a visit to Infantry Battalion TP 845/Ksatria Satam in East Belitung, Bangka Belitung Islands, on Tuesday (17 March 2026).

Accordingly, soldiers have been called upon to maintain public security and comfort, as well as demonstrate readiness in protecting the population. “You must demonstrate that the people are confident that the soldiers in this battalion are ready to safeguard them. Is that clear?” Sjafrie asked, met with shouts of “Ready!” from the troops.

According to Sjafrie, soldiers represent the hopes and support of society in protecting the sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, from Sabang to Merauke. Sjafrie also reminded soldiers to honour public trust by maintaining security and fostering a sense of comfort in community life.

“You come from various religions, you come from various ethnicities. But in the Indonesian National Armed Forces, you are one—you are soldiers of the Indonesian National Armed Forces,” he said.