By: Indah Prameswari)*
President Prabowo Subianto has urged security forces, including the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), to immediately restore security to maintain national stability. This step is considered crucial to ensure normal public activities and uninterrupted national economic activity.
The chaotic situation during the demonstrations at the end of August has caused widespread anxiety and fear among the public. The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) have once again become the backbone of restoring national security. The goal is clear: to restore a sense of security and public trust in the state.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and Indonesian National Armed Forces Commander General Agus Subiyanto are strongly committed to taking immediate, concrete action on the ground. Both agreed that security stability cannot be delayed as it concerns the lives of many.
The National Police Chief emphasized that the efforts taken by the authorities include firm and measured steps in accordance with legal procedures. Enforcement is aimed at protecting the interests of the wider community, not merely providing a deterrent effect. He warned that if firm action is not taken, actions initially aimed at expressing aspirations could escalate into serious criminal acts, such as arson, destruction of public facilities, and even attacks on police headquarters.
Furthermore, the National Police Chief guaranteed protection for all levels of society. Officers are working professionally, prioritizing public safety. He also urged the public to remain calm, not be easily provoked, and to entrust the situation to the security forces working hard on the ground.
Meanwhile, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto emphasized the importance of maintaining unity amidst the post-riot situation. He stated that deliberation should be prioritized over violence. He believes that those attempting to divide the nation through provocation should not be given any space. Synergy between the community and security forces is key to mitigating the potential for further conflict.
The interim Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam), Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, also assured that the national security situation remains under control. He emphasized the government’s commitment to building intensive social communication with the public, both through security operations and open dialogue. He believes that communication serves as a bridge to align perceptions and strengthen the sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
The government has prioritized the situation following the anarchic demonstrations. The Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs added that authorities are continuing to increase vigilance to anticipate potential escalation of conflict. The presence of officers in the community is not only for security but also as a guarantee that the state is there to protect its citizens.
To date, several regions are still gripped by demonstrations due to unmet aspirations. However, the government ensures that all dynamics remain under control. An inclusive communication approach, fair law enforcement, and peaceful oversight of demonstrations are key strategies for maintaining national stability.
On the other hand, the government also understands that demonstrations are part of the constitutionally guaranteed freedom of expression. Therefore, monitoring of demonstrations continues, emphasizing a persuasive approach, as long as aspirations are expressed peacefully and do not harm the public. If aspirations can be expressed in an orderly manner, it opens up ample space for dialogue, thus preventing potential unrest early on.
The recent demonstrations that have turned violent have not only impacted security but also the social and economic sectors. Many small businesses have had to close their doors due to safety concerns, while public transportation has been disrupted. This situation serves as a crucial reminder that security stability is directly linked to the economic sustainability of the community.
The synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) extends beyond physical security. They are also strengthening intelligence cooperation to detect potential threats early. Social media monitoring, provocateur network detection, and regional vulnerability mapping are all being conducted in an integrated manner. This allows authorities to take preventative action before potential conflicts escalate into major unrest.
Furthermore, the government has engaged community leaders, religious leaders, academics, and civil society organizations to help defuse tensions. Their role is crucial because they have an emotional connection with the grassroots. Through heart-to-heart communication, the spread of provocation can be suppressed, and the public can be convinced that peaceful means are more beneficial than violence.
Efforts to restore stability are not merely short-term. The government is also developing medium- and long-term measures by strengthening a culture of dialogue, improving public communication, and reviewing policies that fuel unrest. This way, demonstrations can remain a healthy democratic outlet, not a source of prolonged conflict.
The Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs’ statement addressed public concerns. Drawing on his extensive experience in defense and security, he emphasized that the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) is paramount. The government, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) are committed to creating a conducive environment so that all Indonesians can return to their daily activities with a sense of security. The resulting synergy is expected to provide a strong foundation for facing future security challenges.
The synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and the government is a key pillar in maintaining national security following the chaotic demonstrations. With a firm approach while prioritizing inclusive dialogue, stability is expected to be quickly restored so that people can return to their normal activities in peace. This shared commitment affirms that national unity and the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) remain the top priority above all other interests.
)* The author is a security issue observer
