Red and White Precision Expedition to Reach 17 Outermost Points in Riau
The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) will launch the Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi 2026, targeting 17 points across various regions of Riau. The Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi focuses on frontier, outermost, and underdeveloped (3T) areas. Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan stated that the programme is part of efforts to strengthen the spirit of nationalism, increase social awareness, and promote environmental conservation in coastal areas. He made the statement during a dialogue with residents of Concong District, Indragiri Hilir Regency, ahead of the expedition’s scheduled departure at the Riau Regional Police Headquarters on Saturday, 1 August 2026. Inspector General Herry said the activity is part of the 81st Anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia’s Independence and a momentum to revive the spirit of struggle and nationalism within society. “Entering the month of independence, everyone wants to revive the values of the nation’s founders. That spirit must be passed on to the younger generation so they can contribute to development towards a Golden Indonesia 2045,” said Inspector General Herry on Thursday (30/7/2026). According to him, the Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi will involve various elements, including the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), local governments, university students, and community groups. During the expedition, the group will visit 17 locations in several regencies and cities in Riau, especially villages in 3T areas. Besides carrying the spirit of nationalism, the activity will also feature dialogues with residents, distribution of social aid, national awareness education, and environmental conservation campaigns. “We want to be present directly among the community to listen to their aspirations, while also inviting all elements to preserve nature. A well-maintained environment is part of our responsibility to future generations,” Herry said. He added that the coastal areas targeted by the expedition will also receive attention through various conservation actions, including mangrove planting to reduce the impact of abrasion and preserve the coastal ecosystem. On the occasion, the Police Chief also reminded the public of the importance of improving digital literacy among the younger generation. According to him, social media must be used wisely to avoid triggering divisions or the spread of harmful information. Herry also invited religious leaders, traditional leaders, community figures, and youths to jointly strengthen unity, maintain environmental security, and shield the younger generation from drug abuse and other negative influences. He expressed hope that the Ekspedisi Merah Putih Presisi would not merely be a ceremonial event, but would bring tangible benefits to communities in coastal and remote areas of Riau. “This activity also strengthens the love for the homeland and environmental awareness as a legacy for the future,” he concluded.