Defence Minister: TNI Must Provide Real Presence for Citizens' Security and Welfare
The Defence Minister of the Republic of Indonesia (Menhan RI) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin conducted a working visit to the Territorial Infantry Battalion Development (Yonif TP) 845/Ksatria Satam at Simpang Tiga, Simpang Renggiang, East Belitung, Bangka Belitung Islands, on Tuesday (17 March).
The Defence Minister’s visit aimed to provide direct guidance to troops and assess the unit’s readiness in supporting defence operations whilst empowering the region.
The Defence Minister commended the role of Yonif TP 845/Ksatria Satam, which has delivered tangible benefits to surrounding communities. The unit’s presence contributes not only to defence but also to social and economic activities, including supporting teaching and learning in schools, collaborating with farmer groups, conducting security patrols to prevent crime such as robbery, and promoting MSME growth through procurement by troops and their families.
“Communities must genuinely feel the presence of the TNI, whether in terms of security, economy, or socio-cultural affairs,” the Defence Minister stated emphatically.
Furthermore, the Defence Minister emphasised that the TNI’s identity as a people’s army, a freedom-fighting army, a professional army, and a national army must continue to guide all operational duties. The spirit of sacrifice for nation and country must remain a core value instilled in every soldier.
“You must be grateful and thankful to the people for the trust they have given. Repay that trust with dedication, professionalism, and the ability to guarantee the safety and security of the Indonesian people,” the Defence Minister added.
On this occasion, the Defence Minister also instructed every Yonif TP unit to implement greening programmes both within barracks and along access routes to bases.
The Defence Minister’s visit to Yonif TP 845/Ksatria Satam was attended by the TNI Vice Commander, the Head of the Defence Ministry’s Facilities Body, the Deputy Army Chief of Staff, the Commander of Military Region II/Sriwijaya, and various officials from Army Headquarters and Military Region II/Sriwijaya.