TNI told to generate intellectuals

BANDUNG (JP): Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Adm. Widodo A.S. asserted on Saturday the need for TNI Staff and Command School (Sesko TNI) to find -- in the face of rapid change in the country -- intellectuals to help deal with many complex issues.

Widodo said in his speech marking the commemoration of the school's 26th anniversary on Jl. Martanegara, that the school is expected to serve as a think tank, from which TNI is able to recognize its weaknesses, and also be able to respond to criticism along with the needs of the people.

"We cannot act as if the military were the only ones who know how to deal with national defense affairs," Widodo said in a statement read by deputy Army chief of staff Lt. Gen. Endriartono Sutarto, who is also the school's outgoing commander.

The school's rich experience must be nurtured to live up to its status as "a center of excellence", Widodo stated.

TNI, he said, must understand and anticipate the nation's vast changes, but at the same time strengthen national unity.

"We have to be able to cope with it or else we will watch the country go to pieces," Widodo reiterated.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, Endriartono warned military critics against throwing out dirty opinions for their own benefit.

He admitted that TNI had not yet found its appropriate position and role in Indonesian society.

"This has been a long debate and we will keep trying to reach a definitive and suitable conclusion. So help us through being fair and giving us positive feedback and support," he said.

He hailed the appointment of Lt. Gen. Djadja Suparman as his successor, whom he said fit the position due to his mastery of command and territorial jobs.

Djadja, the former Army Strategic Reserve Command (Kostrad) chief, refused to comment on his future plans.

The handing over ceremony for the school's commander is slated to take place at TNI Headquarters in Jakarta on Monday, Sesko TNI spokesman Maj. I.B. Samba said. (25/edt)