The readiness of security measures is a commitment from the government to ensure that the second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) in Bali runs smoothly and safely.
By: Agus Rachmadi
The Indonesian government is demonstrating its strong commitment as the host of the second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) and the High Level Forum On Multi Stakeholders Partnership (HLF-MSP) 2024 in Bali by preparing tight security measures. The international forum, which will take place from 1 to 3 September 2024, is expected to be one of the important events that will strengthen Indonesia’s relations with countries in Africa
As a concrete step to ensure the smooth running of this event, the Indonesian National Police (Polri) has deployed thousands of personnel as part of a centralized security operation codenamed ‘Puri Agung II 2024’. This operation is designed to maintain security and order during the two international events. The security prepared by the police is not just to protect foreign guests, but also to maintain Indonesia’s image, especially Bali, as a safe and comfortable destination in the eyes of the world.
In a written statement released on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, the Head of the Public Relations Division of the National Police, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, revealed that a total of 4,523 personnel will be deployed for this operation. This security operation will involve personnel from the National Police Headquarters totaling 1,459 individuals, the Bali Regional Police with 2,464 individuals, as well as 300 personnel each from the East Java Regional Police and the West Nusa Tenggara Regional Police. The deployment of personnel from these two regional police outside of Bali is carried out because East Java and NTB are considered buffer areas that play a crucial role in supporting the security of Bali.
The Puri Agung II operation 2024 will be held from August 31 to September 4, 2024, involving various related agencies. In addition to the military and the Presidential Security Forces, the National Police will also collaborate with the National Counterterrorism Agency to ensure that all events proceed safely and smoothly. This synergy is expected to address security challenges in major international events such as the IAF and HLF-MSP.
This security readiness relies not only on security personnel but also invites all elements of society to participate. The Head of the Operations Bureau of the Bali Police, Commissioner Soelistijono, emphasized the importance of the community’s role in maintaining security and order during the event. He invites all the people of Bali to work together to maintain Bali’s image as a safe destination, both nationally and internationally. According to him, the world’s trust in Bali as a safe destination must be upheld by all parties, including the local community.
Bali, which has often hosted various international events, is once again being tested in terms of security. Soelistijono reminds that the security measures implemented for this event will adhere to the high standards that have been applied in previous events, such as the World Water Forum Summit and the G20 Summit. This shows how serious the government is in maintaining Indonesia’s reputation on the international stage.
In addition to security, other preparations have also been carried out well. As of now, a total of 58 heads of state have been recorded as invited to attend this forum. The agenda to be discussed in the IAF and HLF-MSP includes various strategic issues, such as economic transformation, energy, mining, food security, health, and development. This forum is expected to serve as a platform for fostering closer collaboration between Indonesia and African countries, which will have a positive impact on global development.
In organizing an international-scale event like this, the government is working hard to ensure that all preparations go smoothly, including in terms of security. The police are responsible for maintaining a conducive situation during the event, so that participants can feel safe and comfortable. This is not only important for the success of the event, but also for enhancing Indonesia’s image as a country capable of hosting international meetings with high security standards.
The security measures implemented for the second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) and the High Level Forum On Multi Stakeholders Partnership (HLF-MSP) 2024 in Bali are a tangible testament to the government’s commitment to supporting the success of these events. By deploying thousands of personnel and collaborating with various agencies, Indonesia is ready to show the world that Bali is a safe and worthy host for prestigious international meetings.
As the host, Indonesia is expected to leave a positive impression on the visiting dignitaries and delegations present. The well-organized security preparedness is expected to ensure that the event runs safely, smoothly, and without disruptions, while also strengthening Indonesia’s image as a country capable of successfully hosting international events.
In addition, the invitation from the police to the people of Bali to participate in maintaining security and order deserves appreciation. This shows that the success of the Indonesia-Africa Forum and the High Level Forum on Multi Stakeholders Partnership is not only the responsibility of the government and security forces, but also of the community as good hosts. Bali, as a world tourist destination, is once again expected to prove that besides its natural beauty, it is also a safe place to hold prestigious international meetings.
*) National Security Issues Observer from Indo Gala Media Institute
