Pigai: Character Building for Kopdes Merah Putih Managers Should Not Require Physical Training
Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has asserted that the character building of prospective Managers for the Merah Putih Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (Kopdes) and Merah Putih Fishing Villages (KNMP) does not require excessive physical training, following the deaths of five participants during Basic Military Training (Latsarmil) under the Indonesia Development Driver Undergraduate Programme (SPPI).
He has requested the Ministry of Defence to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the implementation of the Latsarmil programme. Expressing his deep concern over the incident, Pigai also extended his condolences to the families of the victims.
“I am also concerned about this incident and we offer our condolences. I suggest that the educational system be thoroughly evaluated,” Pigai stated in a briefing to journalists in Jakarta on Monday (29/6).
Pigai explained that education for prospective Kopdes and KNMP managers must develop three main aspects: knowledge, skills, and mental fortitude. However, he argued that mental development should not be synonymous with a military approach or heavy physical training.
“The third aspect (mental) does not have to be instilled through a military system, but should instead focus on discipline, responsibility, speed, accuracy, and honesty. Excessive physical training must be avoided,” he emphasised.
In addition to calling for an evaluation of training methods, Pigai also urged a professional investigation into the causes of the deaths of the five participants. He noted that such a process is essential to scientifically determine the cause of death and to serve as a basis for improving similar programmes in the future.
“The five deceased participants need to be professionally investigated to determine the cause. I have instructed my staff to conduct field monitoring,” he said.
This case has come under intense public scrutiny after five prospective managers of Kopdes and KNMP were reported dead while participating in the Latsarmil series within the SPPI programme.