Lemhanas Governor: BTP Formation a Strategic Move to Strengthen National Security and Stability

Governor of the National Resilience Institute (Lemhanas) Ace Hasan Syadzily has backed the Ministry of Defence’s plan to establish Territorial Development Battalions (BTP). The policy to expand BTP across all districts and cities in Java is considered a strategic move.

“I believe this concept has been designed and planned by the Ministry of Defence, and its current expansion across all districts and cities in Java is a highly strategic policy being implemented gradually by the ministry,” Ace stated on Sunday, 31 May 2026.

Ace added that the priority on Java for accelerating BTP formation is due to its high population density and potential social vulnerabilities, which are fundamental considerations for maintaining national security stability.

“Why is Java prioritised? Because Java has a very large population and potential security instabilities, so BTP must indeed be prioritised,” he said.

Beyond defence and security functions, the presence of BTP in regions is also projected to synergise with central government strategic programs, particularly in the food sector.

“In order to ensure various government priority programs, such as food security, there will be a partnership with the Territorial Development Battalions (BTP),” he added.

He emphasised that the Ministry of Defence’s acceleration of BTP formation aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision and mission outlined in the Asta Cita.

“So, by accelerating the BTP formation process, we hope to expedite the achievement of Asta Cita goals, particularly in food security and ensuring national security is fully realised,” he said.

Ace also stressed that robust national resilience can only be achieved with a conducive security situation. He stated that the presence of BTP is expected to accelerate the government’s national targets.