Sukabumi Regent Appreciates TNI for Building Garuda Suci Bridge, Strengthening TNI-People Unity

Sukabumi Regent H. Asep Japar has expressed his appreciation for the TNI following the construction of the Garuda Suci Bridge in Cikembar Village, Sukabumi Regency. He stated that the project reinforces the unity between the TNI and the people. “This bridge is very strategic. It is the lifeblood of the community in terms of the economy, education, health, and more. We welcome it greatly,” he said after inaugurating the Garuda Suci Bridge alongside Pangdam III Siliwangi, Major General TNI Kosasih, on Monday, 20 July 2026. He noted that the presence of the Garuda Suci Bridge is tangible proof of President Prabowo Subianto’s concern for the people, alongside other priority programmes such as the Koperasi Desa Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP), Free Nutritious Meals (MBG), and people’s schools. “Many of Mr Prabowo’s programmes truly reach village communities. Several KDKMP units are already operating in Sukabumi. If the KDKMP and SPPG are fully realised, God willing, the village economy will improve. Therefore, I fully support all of the president’s programmes,” he said. Pangdam III Siliwangi, Major General TNI Kosasih, stated that the Garuda Bridge is a presidential programme oriented towards the public interest and expressed hope that it would benefit the community. “Hopefully, this bridge can improve various aspects for the surrounding community, including social awareness, the economy, and smoother relations between hamlets,” he said. During the event, various forms of aid were also distributed to the community. The construction of the Garuda Suci Bridge was an initiative of the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, fulfilling a dream of the residents of Sukamantri and Cikaret hamlets. According to collected data, the bridge was built through a collaboration between the TNI and the people, with the construction process taking approximately 35 days since June. Udat, a 72-year-old resident of Cikaret hamlet, said the bridge has had a significant impact, particularly for the transportation of agricultural produce, education, and healthcare, as it can now be used by cars. “Alhamdulillah, now the bridge can be passed by cars. Previously, only motorbikes could cross. The benefits are truly felt,” he said. He added that the bridge has reduced travel time for Sukamantri residents heading to urban areas. “Before, we had to take a detour to get to the city, especially by car. Now we can cross the bridge and the journey is much faster,” he said. Lina, another resident, echoed this sentiment, noting that the bridge is not only useful for locals but also serves as an alternative route for other motorists, especially when the main road is congested. “It is often used as an alternative when there is a traffic jam. It also provides access for residents going to work and can even serve as an alternative route to Jampang Tengah District.”