Prospective Kopdes Merah Putih Managers Undergo Military-Style Training

The Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) participants are being trained at the 1st Marine Infantry Brigade in Cilandak. A total of 670 prospective managers are divided into four companies of approximately 196 people each. Their daily routine begins at 3:30 a.m. with preparations for morning exercise, followed by drill training, and classroom instruction starting at 8:30 a.m. on basic military skills such as field knowledge and map reading, often lasting until 10 p.m.

During a classroom session observed by Tempo, a Marine officer with the rank of major delivered material in a firm tone without a microphone, demanding individual responses from participants in a disciplined atmosphere. After approximately 15 minutes indoors, the trainees were marched to a field to practise the map-reading skills they had just learned. The training also incorporates group cohesion activities, including marching around the field and singing chants.

Mealtimes are conducted with strict order and time limits, an experience participant Wiliam Tingting described as memorable. He noted that while the packed schedule is physically draining and some participants have fallen ill, the Marines’ medical response has been attentive. Commander of the SPPI Training Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Agus Mutaqin, stated the programme is designed to build character through discipline, cohesion, and responsibility, employing a system of rewards and disciplinary push-ups for infractions. After completing the initial two-week basic phase, participants are scheduled for individual marksmanship training in the third week.