By: Mahfud Baihaqi *)
Indonesia is facing serious challenges in the form of rampant drug abuse and smuggling of illegal goods that threaten the security and welfare of the community. One case that has resurfaced occurred at Kualanamu International Airport (KNIA), showing that various eradication efforts have not had a deterrent effect. Security officers managed to thwart the smuggling of 1 kilogram of crystal methamphetamine carried by a passenger named MFK, a resident of North Aceh, who was about to depart for Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi.
North Sumatra community leader Rajamin Sirait expressed his concerns and emphasized the importance of stricter supervision at KNIA. According to him, officers need to act firmly without compromise in every narcotics case to prevent the circulation of narcotics that threaten the nation’s generation.
Under President Prabowo Subianto, firm steps have been taken to address the problems of drugs and smuggling. This step also emphasizes the government’s commitment to social justice and the protection of future generations.
Through synergy between institutions, such as the Police, TNI, BIN, BNN and support from all elements of society, efforts to eradicate drugs and smuggling are expected to restore public trust and create a safer and more prosperous environment. This action does not only focus on law enforcement, but also on prevention and counseling, creating a society that is more responsive to these threats.
Recently, National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo showed a quick response to President Prabowo’s direction after attending the Red and White Cabinet retreat in Magelang. In the meeting held online, General Sigit emphasized the importance of supporting the President’s Asta Cita and various government programs. In this context, strict law enforcement against drug and smuggling cases is a top priority. General Sigit not only called for law enforcement, but also encouraged more systematic prevention efforts.
This concrete step by the police shows a commitment to maintaining the integrity of state security. Handling the drug problem, which has become a serious threat to the younger generation, has received special attention. It is undeniable that drug trafficking damages social order and threatens the future of the nation. Therefore, firm action in law enforcement is an important step to ensure that future generations can grow up in an environment free from negative influences.
On the other hand, Deputy Chairman of Commission I of the South Kalimantan Provincial DPRD, Habib Hamid Bahasyim, expressed his appreciation for President Prabowo’s order asking the TNI to participate in combating drugs. According to him, the active participation of the TNI in eradicating drugs is part of the duty to defend the country. This shows the synergy between the Police and the TNI in facing challenges that threaten the sovereignty and security of the country. Drug abuse can cause wider damage, not only to individuals but also to society as a whole.
Hamid Bahasyim emphasized that the joint efforts between the TNI and Polri in combating drugs are a strategic step that will strengthen Indonesia’s position in facing this challenge. Meanwhile, support from the community and related ministries is also needed to ensure that eradication programs run effectively. This is a call for all parties to contribute to building a better environment.
In addition to focusing on drugs, the government is also paying attention to the issue of smuggling of illegal goods. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs, Budi Gunawan, stated that smuggling is still a serious problem that causes foreign exchange leakage. In this context, it is important for the government to strengthen the monitoring and law enforcement mechanisms so that state revenues are not lost due to these illegal practices. Foreign exchange leakage not only harms the state but also hampers broader development efforts.
Budi Gunawan emphasized the importance of collaboration between ministries and institutions to overcome this problem. With good synergy, it is hoped that law enforcement can be carried out more effectively and coordinated. This shows that the government is not only acting reactively, but also proactively in formulating policies to overcome problems that are detrimental to society.
This effort is in line with President Prabowo’s vision to create a just and prosperous society. By addressing drug abuse and smuggling, the government is trying to create conditions that are conducive to economic growth and social welfare. Handling these problems is expected to provide long-term positive impacts for society, especially in creating a healthier and more productive generation.
Success in eradicating drugs and smuggling will require support from all elements of society. Active community participation, both in the form of information and direct involvement in prevention programs, is essential. Collective awareness of the importance of protecting the younger generation from the negative influence of drugs must be a shared priority.
The firm steps taken by President Prabowo and his staff reflect the government’s commitment to protecting the people. It is hoped that all these actions are not just slogans, but also manifested in the form of real results felt by the community. Thus, Indonesia can move towards the expected social justice, where every citizen has an equal opportunity to live in a safe and prosperous environment.
Through appropriate policies and effective actions, the government seeks to build a solid foundation for the nation’s future. In facing the challenges of drugs and smuggling, courage and firmness will be the key to creating a better Indonesia.
*) Social and Legal Observer