TNI deploys 450 combat troops from Aceh to guard RI-PNG border
The mission this time focuses not only on security and territorial sovereignty but also on humanitarian efforts.
Banda Aceh (ANTARA) - Korem 0ability 012/Teuku Umar of the Iskandar Muda (IM) Kodam in Aceh has deployed 450 Indonesian Army (TNI AD) soldiers from the 117/Ksatria Yudha Infantry Battalion (Yonif 117/KY) for a mission to guard the border between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) in the Boven Digoel region.
“This mission focuses not only on aspects of security and territorial sovereignty, but also on a humanitarian mission,” said the Commander of Yonif 117/Ksatria Yudha, Lt. Col. Inf. Jahrul Fahmi, in North Aceh on Thursday.
The combat unit under the Korem 012/Teuku Umar command departed for the Papua border region via the KRI Banjarmasin-592, departing from the Krueng Geukueh Port in North Aceh.
Before boarding the warship, a solemn ‘peusijuk’ (traditional sprinkling of water) ceremony was held at the pier. This procession was led directly by a charismatic Acehnese religious figure, Tengku Muzakkir, also known as Waled Lapang.
This characteristic Acehnese tradition serves as a symbol of prayer, blessing, and hope that all personnel are granted safety, strength, and smoothness in carrying out their national duties.
Lt. Col. Inf. Jahrul Fahmi explained that before entering the operational area, the entire force will stop in Cipatat, West Java. They will undergo intensive pre-task training for one month.
“After the pre-task training is completed, the troops will then be sent to the Boven Digoel Regency, Papua, to carry out the Indonesia–PNG border security mission for 12 months,” he said.
He emphasised that this mission is not solely focused on security and territorial sovereignty. The soldiers of the Yonif 117/KY Task Force are also carrying a humanitarian mission through community development programmes in the border area.
Furthermore, the soldiers will apply their skills in the fields of agriculture, plantation, and fisheries. They have been equipped during the preparation period to assist in improving the welfare of local residents.
Lt. Col. Inf. Jahrul added that all personnel are currently in combat-ready condition, both in terms of mental and physical readiness, as well as equipment.
On this occasion, he advised all soldiers to always prioritise safety and maintain the good reputation of the unit while in the assignment area.
“To the families of the soldiers, we ask for your continuous prayers and moral support so that this sacred duty can be carried out successfully until the soldiers return to the land of Aceh safely and without any harm,” concluded Lt. Col. Inf. Jahrul Fahmi.