In praise of TNI

In praise of TNI

From Pelita

Unfavorable reports about the Indonesian Military (TNI) continue to make the daily rounds. Incidents in Aceh, West Kalimantan, East Timor, Maluku and Irian Jaya are always connected with the performance of TNI members. Some people have even said that gossip about TNI spreads from Sabang to Merauke, from the westernmost to the easternmost end of the country.

Unfortunately, generally only the shortcomings and the weaknesses of TNI are put under the spotlight while the military's positive side is overlooked. In fact, it is common knowledge that TNI has done more good things than bad ones. If one is to be fair, objective and clear in viewing TNI, one may be in for a surprise.

In each area where there is turmoil, members of TNI must try to keep the security of the area under control to ensure that the welfare of the local people will not be disrupted. Members of TNI assigned in these areas aim at a single purpose only, to restore security in the areas. Some of them have even sacrificed their lives for the sake of the locals.

The recent barbaric murder of six marines in Aceh may serve as a good example. The marines were killed while they were praying. They lost their lives not in a face-to-face fight against the enemy, but in their dedication to God. It is evidence that members of TNI will resort to violence only for self-defense, and not out of a desire to kill their enemies. They have resorted to violence only for the sake of a peaceful life for the locals.

They are aware that their present enemies are their own brothers, from the same nation and the same motherland. TNI has resorted to a persuasive approach because it is facing its own countrymen with different opinions. Unfortunately, certain armed gangs (read the Free Aceh Movement/GAM) prefer to settle problems by resorting to arms. Therefore, the victims are TNI members. Unfortunately, although some TNI members have lost their lives, many parties prefer to remain quiet. However, if the armed rebels are killed, TNI is accused of violating human rights and it is publicized worldwide. TNI has indeed been unfairly treated.

One gets the impression that our concern for human rights does not apply to TNI. Nevertheless, despite this unfair treatment, TNI remains cool-headed and under control. It never sets out to take revenge. Those members of TNI who have lost their lives will be smiling if all types of violence are stopped and the people return to leading a peaceful life. They have lost their lives for the sake of the Indonesian nation and state. Goodbye my marines. May you bring an end to the suffering of the Indonesian people. Peace on you in the hereafter.

SUDARSO

Jakarta