JAKARTA – Ahead of the 2024-2025 Christmas and New Year (Nataru) celebrations, the government through various agencies is increasing security efforts to ensure the safety, comfort, and smooth running of community activities.
One of the main steps taken was the implementation of Operation Lilin throughout Indonesia.
National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo said that thousands of personnel will be deployed in this security operation.
“Operation Candle was carried out at 2,794 posts throughout Indonesia, involving 141,443 joint personnel from the Police, TNI, and other related agencies,” he explained.
The focus of security does not only cover religious activities, but also community activities involving tourism or homecoming travel between provinces or within provinces.
The Chief of Police emphasized that the implementation of religious services during the Christmas and New Year period is a primary concern.
“The current coordination meeting is to prepare the entire series of community activities to run safely, smoothly and well,” he said.
To finalize preparations, the National Police will also hold further technical coordination meetings, as well as conduct direct checks in the field.
“We will ensure that all deficiencies are immediately corrected so that the implementation of the Nataru series can run better,” he added.
At the regional level, various strategic steps have also been taken.
Makassar Port Police, for example, are increasing security and services at Soekarno Hatta Makassar Port.
Aipda Adil from the Makassar Harbor Police explained that his party had prepared personnel at strategic points to prevent potential security disturbances.
“We want to ensure that people feel safe and comfortable while at the port,” he said.
In addition, a complaint and assistance post will be provided 24 hours a day to serve the needs of the community.
Meanwhile, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport also held integrated exercises to improve the readiness of personnel and equipment in facing potential threats ahead of Christmas and New Year.
Soekarno-Hatta Airport General Manager, Dwi Ananda Wicaksana, explained that the exercise involved 229 personnel from various agencies, including the Indonesian Army Engineering Center and Aviation Security.
“This exercise is a manifestation of our commitment to ensuring operational safety and security at the airport, especially ahead of the peak passenger movement period during Christmas and New Year,” he said.
According to Dwi, cross-agency cooperation is very important to deal with emergency situations.
“This collaboration is a form of real synergy between the airport and security forces,” he said. [*]
