By Yustisia Agustin )*
The commemoration of the Republic of Indonesia’s Independence Day is always a crucial moment to affirm the country’s commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and security. Under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership, the defense and security sector has demonstrated significant progress, both in terms of policy, budget, and international diplomatic strategy. This reflects the fact that the spirit of independence is not only manifested in ceremonies but also in concrete steps to strengthen the nation’s foundations.
Military observer and Head of the Center for Intermestic and Diplomatic Engagement (CIDE), Anton Aliabbas, assessed that since Prabowo’s entry into government in 2019 as Minister of Defense, attention to the defense and security sector has increased. This transformation continued when Prabowo took office as President in 2024. During that period, there was a significant increase in the defense budget, which now reaches around Rp160 trillion. This increase reflects the government’s seriousness in preparing Indonesia to face security challenges, both military and non-military, amidst constantly changing global geopolitical dynamics.
One of the strategic steps seen in recent times is the elevation of the status of special forces such as Kopassus and Kopasgat in preparation for combat. Furthermore, the government is also expanding Regional Military Commands (Kodam) as part of its regional defense strategy. Although Indonesia is known as a nation that upholds peace, Anton emphasized that developing defense forces remains crucial to ensuring national sovereignty and security. However, he cautioned that budget increases must be accompanied by a commitment to modernizing defense equipment, ensuring that the goal is not simply to expand the structure but also to improve the quality of combat capabilities and technology.
The defense sector’s significant responsibilities focus not only on military aspects but also on Indonesia’s active role in international forums. The Prabowo administration has positioned defense diplomacy as an integral part of its national security strategy. Indonesia’s active involvement in global issues, such as the Israel-Palestine and Russia-Ukraine conflicts, demonstrates that the country is not only securing itself but also contributing to world peace. These efforts align with the four national goals stated in the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution: protecting the entire nation, advancing the general welfare, improving the nation’s intellectual life, and contributing to maintaining world order.
The positive impact of defense development during the Prabowo era is also expected to impact the national economy, particularly the domestic defense industry. Anton believes that defense equipment procurement should involve State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) to improve production quality and achieve a multiplier effect on the economy. Thus, increasing the defense budget would not only strengthen combat capabilities but also stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the competitiveness of the national industry.
Despite the focus on building military strength, prioritization remains key. Anton emphasized that the defense budget in the state budget should not be entirely allocated to military needs. A portion should be used for Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP), such as food security programs. President Prabowo views the food crisis as a strategic threat requiring early mitigation. This policy demonstrates the comprehensive defense outlook under President Prabowo, not solely relying on military strength but also ensuring the availability of vital resources for the people.
Prabowo’s strong leadership qualities—derived from his military background, sensitivity to strategic issues, and experience in international forums—are among the strengths of the current administration. He appears confident and respected internationally, particularly in Southeast Asia. Bilateral relations with neighboring countries like Malaysia and Australia have also strengthened, creating regional stability conducive to economic growth and shared security.
President Prabowo is also known for regularly conducting cabinet evaluations to respond to dynamic geopolitical developments. He focuses not only on international issues such as the Cambodia-Thailand conflict or the global crisis, but also pays serious attention to domestic issues. Issues such as poverty, online gambling, and drugs receive special attention as part of the national defense strategy. This approach demonstrates that national security is inseparable from social stability and the well-being of the people.
The success of defense and security under President Prabowo was also supported by a synergistic approach between military strength and diplomacy. Modernization of defense equipment, personnel capacity building, and territorial development went hand in hand with strengthening international cooperation. In the spirit of Indonesia’s Independence Day, this strategy reflects the determination to safeguard the independence that was fought for at great sacrifice. Independence is not merely an inheritance, but a trust that must be safeguarded with readiness to face all threats.
Global geopolitical challenges, non-military threats, and rapid technological change require the nation to prepare early. Therefore, the success of the defense and security sector under President Prabowo is not only a source of pride but also a guarantee of the nation’s survival. Policies that combine military strength, diplomacy, and national resilience reflect the visionary spirit of the proclamation. This era serves as a reminder that maintaining independence requires an adaptive, collaborative, and forward-thinking strategy.
With strong leadership, popular support, and a commitment to national goals, Indonesia is on the right track to safeguard its sovereignty and contribute to world peace. The spirit of Indonesian Independence Day during the Prabowo era was not only celebrated with flags and parades, but also manifested in concrete efforts to maintain the nation’s security, independence, and prosperity.
)* the author is a public policy observer