Prabowo: TNI System Must Prioritise Meritocracy Over Seniority

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that the system within the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) must be based on achievement, rather than merely on seniority.

Prabowo made these remarks while delivering a mandate during the 81st Anniversary ceremony of the TNI on 5 October 202<0xC2>6 at the TNI Headquarters in Cilangkap, East Jakarta, on Monday (5/10).

Prabowo stated that the TNI must become a professional, responsive, modern, innovative, and adaptive force. He noted that the TNI must now master technology; therefore, he argued, the military must prioritise achievement.

“Once again, I emphasise that a great TNI is one that prioritises achievement. The system in place within the TNI must be a system of merit, not just a system of seniority, let alone narrow systems, narrow loyalty, or loyalty based solely on rank,” said Prabowo.

Prabowo added that TNI personnel must be able to cooperate and synergise with ministries, central government agencies, regional governments, governors, regents, sub-district heads, village heads, and even tribal leaders.

“The strength and capability of the TNI must be able to accelerate the implementation of government programmes and overcome the various real difficulties faced by the people,” he said.

Prabowo noted that Indonesia is a large nation and state. He continued, stating that Indonesia possesses a vast territory, thousands of islands, extensive maritime areas, long borders, and various strategic objects that must be protected.

“We will also continue to build our strength. We must remember that the size of the Indonesian nation is comparable to Europe. Europe consists of more than 30 countries, each with 30 armies, 30 air forces, and 30 navies. We have one TNI. Your task is heavy, but I am confident you are capable,” Prabowo remarked.

Furthermore, Prabowo stated that the government will continue to prioritise the welfare of soldiers, the education of their children, healthcare services, and the lives of soldiers’ families.

“But once again, I emphasise that the TNI, as the people’s army, must not have a standard of living that is too far removed from the standard of living of our entire population,” he concluded.