Indonesian Military Investigating Identity of Soldier Accompanying Arya Wedakarna in Thailand
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have spoken out regarding the presence of an individual in military uniform accompanying Arya Wedakarna, a member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) from Bali, at an event in Thailand that included a transgender beauty pageant. The event has been linked to Lesbian-Bisexual-Gay-Transgender (LGBT) issues following photos of Arya and the military member circulating on social media.
Head of the TNI Public Relations Centre, Major General Muhammad Nas, stated that the military is currently conducting internal checks and investigations to verify the identity of the personnel involved. “Regarding this matter, we are conducting internal checks and in-depth investigations to ensure the identity of the personnel, their assignment status, and the context of their presence in Thailand,” Nas said on Wednesday (2/9).
He confirmed that the incident would serve as an evaluation for the internal TNI operations.
Arya previously addressed his presence at the event, stating that he attended not in his capacity as a member of the DPD RI, but as a Balinese figure. “As for me, regarding the event in Thailand yesterday, I attended representing a Hindu institution. Therefore, as a Balinese figure, there is no connection to my official position anywhere,” Arya said when contacted on Wednesday (2/9).
Arya explained that the event consisted of various activities, including the launch of ASEAN tourism, award ceremonies, exhibitions, and discussions. He noted that he attended the award session and the launch of a Bali tourism promotional video, for which he received an award.
“They have produced a good video to promote Bali’s nature and beaches. I received an award in my capacity as a Balinese cultural figure. In Bali, we are accustomed to accepting awards from any group; if someone is presenting an award, we respect it,” he remarked.
He also claimed to be unaware that the event would be associated with LGBT themes. Arya stated that he did not wish to interfere with the affairs of the award organisers, noting that Thailand is known as a tourist destination that caters to various genders.
“We do not comment on the backgrounds of the people providing the awards. There is such a thing as ethics. For us, we represent the Balinese people who work in tourism,” he said.
Meanwhile, Arya clarified that the TNI member seen with him was his personal bodyguard. He claimed that due to security concerns in Thailand, the bodyguard remained with him throughout the trip.
“He is indeed my personal bodyguard. He was there to ensure security, as we know Thailand can be a conflict-prone area—for instance, the recent incidents involving student shootings and bullying, as well as the tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. He was simply performing his duty to provide security,” he concluded.