By: Qolbi Nur Muhammad (
In the dynamics of national life, security stability is an absolute prerequisite for the continuity of development and public welfare. As a democracy, Indonesia provides its citizens with the broadest possible space to express their opinions in public. However, this freedom is often misused by a small group through provocations that escalate into acts of anarchy. In such situations, the synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Police (Polri) becomes a decisive factor in ensuring security, public order, and the upholding of state sovereignty.
Head of the Public Information Bureau of the Police’s Public Relations Division, Police Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, emphasized that the Police are committed to continuously strengthening synergy with the TNI. According to him, the main purpose of the collaboration between the two institutions is to create and maintain security and comfort for all Indonesians. This synergy, he added, is a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in society, ensuring stability and order. His statement highlights the seriousness of the security apparatus in fulfilling the state’s role as protector of the people.
The synergy between TNI and Polri is not mere rhetoric. On the ground, joint forces carry out strategic roles through routine patrols, guarding vital objects, and enforcing the law against those proven to have violated regulations. East Java Police Spokesperson, Police Commissioner Jules Abraham Abast, stressed that these measures are part of a comprehensive strategy to maintain order. According to him, patrols and security measures are not only intended to prevent riots but also to provide a sense of safety for citizens in their daily activities. At the same time, these efforts send a firm message that the state will not allow room for anarchic acts.
Furthermore, in border areas and regions vulnerable to provocation, TNI–Polri synergy has proven vital. East Nusa Tenggara Police Spokesperson, Police Commissioner Henri Novika Chandra, explained that joint patrols are a concrete form of the authorities’ commitment to guaranteeing the safety of citizens. He emphasized that the main goal of this collaboration is to protect the public from rioters and anarchic actions that could disrupt peace. This statement underscores that efforts to maintain stability are not mere rhetoric, but concrete steps consistently implemented across regions.
From a defense and security perspective, TNI–Polri synergy can be seen as a main pillar strengthening national resilience. The presence of a solid and united security force is able to quell potential conflicts before they escalate into widespread unrest. As such, social, economic, and political stability can be preserved. In this context, the presence of the security forces is not only a symbol of state power but also a guarantee of the people’s right to live in peace and safety.
Moreover, this synergy reflects the real implementation of the principle that the state must be present among its people. Security should not be seen as merely the duty of the apparatus, but as a fundamental necessity supporting all aspects of life. Without security, economic activity is disrupted, investment is hindered, and society struggles to progress. Therefore, TNI–Polri collaboration must be regarded as both a form of public service and a crucial pillar of national development.
It is undeniable that the challenges of maintaining security continue to evolve. The rapid flow of information in the digital era makes provocations easily spread through social media. Hate speech, hoaxes, and calls for anarchy can quickly influence the masses. Here, the presence of joint security forces is crucial—not only in physical operations on the ground but also in safeguarding the public sphere from negative influences. The TNI and Polri, with government support, have proven their adaptability in facing increasingly complex threats.
Equally important, TNI–Polri synergy reflects a spirit of unity in facing national challenges. Both institutions have a long history of safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity. Today, they are required to continue transforming to meet the demands of the times. Their presence in overseeing demonstrations and mass actions serves not only to maintain order but also to project a humanist face of the security apparatus, prioritizing dialogue and persuasion before taking repressive measures.
Ultimately, maintaining security is not solely the responsibility of the security forces but a collective duty of all elements of the nation. Society has a significant role to play in supporting the apparatus, particularly by not being easily provoked by misleading issues. Strong collaboration between TNI–Polri and public support is the foundation for ensuring that Indonesia remains steadfast in the face of global challenges.
TNI–Polri synergy is the primary bulwark against provocative actions that could lead to violence and unrest. Their presence goes beyond maintaining order; it ensures that the state is present to protect its people. Therefore, all elements of the nation should lend full support to this collaboration. Let us strengthen unity together and reject all forms of provocation that could harm peace. With public support, TNI and Polri will become even stronger in carrying out their mandate to safeguard national security and stability.
In addition to being the front line in quelling potential unrest, TNI–Polri synergy also functions as a medium of public education. Their presence among the people conveys a moral message that freedom of expression must remain within the bounds of law and national values. In this way, the public not only feels protected but is also encouraged to be more responsible in expressing aspirations, allowing democracy to thrive without sacrificing order and national unity.
*) The author is a Defense Analyst