Defence University Issues Circular Permitting Hijab for Female Muslim Cadets
The Defence University (Unhan) has permitted female Muslim undergraduate (S-1) and diploma (D-3) cadets to wear the hijab during educational and training activities on campus.
The provision is set out in the Rector of Unhan RI Circular Number SE/201/VIII/2026 concerning the Use of Hijab for Female Muslim Undergraduate and Diploma Cadets within the Indonesian Defence University. The circular was signed on 24 August.
The circular states that, in order to place the value of piety as part of the Cadet Code of Honour, cadets are directed to become religious individuals in accordance with their respective religious beliefs, both in official duties and personal life.
In addition, performing worship and mental development are also expressly stipulated as one of the rights of cadets while undergoing education at Unhan.
“Accordingly, it is conveyed that female Muslim undergraduate and diploma cadets are permitted to wear the hijab in all educational and training activities at Unhan RI,” the circular stated, as quoted on Wednesday (26/8).
The use of the hijab for female Muslim cadets is subject to a number of conditions. Among them is wearing a black hijab with the official service uniform.
Cadets must wear the hijab neatly, and it must not compromise safety or hinder educational and training operations.
“The black hijab referred to in point 2a is only temporary until an official hijab design is determined by Unhan RI,” the letter stated.
Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait, Head of the Defence Information Bureau at the Ministry of Defence, confirmed the existence of the circular.
He said the circular was officially issued by the Indonesian Defence University as a follow-up to the direction of the Minister of Defence and the Ministry of Defence’s earlier official clarification regarding the use of the hijab for female Muslim cadets.
Rico explained that the circular affirms that female Muslim undergraduate and diploma cadets are permitted to wear the hijab in all educational and training activities at Unhan RI.
“For the time being, the hijab used is black, worn neatly, does not compromise safety and does not hinder educational and training activities. This provision applies until the official Unhan hijab design is determined,” said Rico.