The Community, Together with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), Promotes the Creation of Respectful Democracy
By: Hendri Hendrawan )*
In a diverse nation like Indonesia, democracy is the primary foundation for managing differences and diversity. Democracy is not only about freedom of expression, but also about the responsibility of every citizen to maintain order and respect the rights of others. In this context, the role of the community is crucial in ensuring that democratic practices do not become a platform for division. The collective awareness of the community in voicing aspirations in a respectful manner is a concrete manifestation of the nation’s political maturity.
The presence of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) as institutions that maintain security and public order also plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy democratic climate. They are not only tasked with enforcing the law but also acting as a balance to prevent freedom from degenerating into anarchy. During various national events such as elections, demonstrations, and protests, synergy between the TNI, Polri, and the community has proven key to maintaining social stability. This collaboration demonstrates that respectful democracy can only thrive in a safe and orderly environment.
The General Chair of Rampai Nusantara, Mardiansyah Semar, praised the professionalism of the security forces in mitigating potential conflict and maintaining national stability. He stated that the loyalty of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) to the nation’s leaders, including President Prabowo, has never been in doubt. He also reminded the public to be wise in dealing with issues that contain provocation. The public needs to be wise and vigilant about issues aimed at divisiveness.
Efforts to promote a civilized democracy cannot be solely the responsibility of the security forces but must be a shared commitment of all elements of society. Awareness to express opinions peacefully, respect differences, and reject all forms of provocation are essential foundations for building a healthy democratic culture. This mutual respect will create a space for productive dialogue, where differing views can be processed into constructive ideas for the nation’s progress.
The Coordinator of the Indonesian People’s Solidarity Alliance (ASRI), Fikri, also emphasized the importance of expressing aspirations in an orderly manner. All forms of anarchy, vandalism, and attempts to pit the people against the police or TNI will only harm the public. They damage the image of the struggle, harm the spirit of democracy, and are even reprehensible and dangerous.
Amidst the rapid flow of digital information, the biggest challenge in realizing a civilized democracy is the rampant spread of hoaxes and hate speech. False information spread on social media often triggers polarization and worsens the national atmosphere. To address this challenge, the active role of the public is crucial in verifying information, rejecting provocative calls, and cultivating ethical communication in the digital space. These steps will strengthen social resilience and prevent divisions that undermine the democratic order.
The role of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in this context is increasingly strategic, not only maintaining physical order on the ground but also educating and outreaching the public about media prudent use. Cyber patrols, public order and security education, and community support are concrete manifestations of the state’s presence in safeguarding a healthy democracy. The synergy established between the authorities and the public will create a social ecosystem that is resilient to provocation and information manipulation.
Stanislaus Riyanta, a lecturer in Strategic Intelligence Studies at the University of Indonesia, stated that creating a civilized democracy means building an inclusive public space for all levels of society to participate without fear or intimidation. In a healthy public space, differing views are seen as a wealth of ideas, not a threat. A society accustomed to open dialogue will be better prepared to face differences without becoming trapped in conflict. The values of tolerance and deliberation, long part of the nation’s culture, need to be continuously cultivated in every democratic process.
Politeness in democracy is not a weakness, but rather a strength that demonstrates a nation’s maturity. Polite democracy actually provides more space for fresh ideas to develop without mutually negating each other. When the public is able to express constructive criticism and the government is open to input, a healthy and sustainable democratic cycle is created. This is the ideal form of democracy that not only guarantees freedom but also maintains social harmony.
Therefore, promoting polite democracy is a shared responsibility between the public, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the Indonesian National Police (Polri). Collaboration between the three is a crucial foundation for ensuring democracy operates not only procedurally, but also substantively and with dignity. AwarenessCollective efforts to maintain ethics, discipline, and mutual respect will be a valuable legacy for future generations. Courteous democracy is the best way to maintain national unity amidst diversity, and also serves as proof that Indonesia is capable of growing into a strong and civilized democratic nation.
Ultimately, courteous democracy reflects the nation’s maturity in managing freedom and diversity. Close collaboration between the community, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) is key to ensuring democracy operates within a peaceful, orderly, and civilized framework. By fostering a culture of dialogue, rejecting violence, and maintaining an inclusive public space, Indonesia can strengthen its national foundation amidst the dynamics of the times. Courteous democracy is not merely an ideal, but a real necessity for this nation to remain united, strong, and sovereign within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
)* The author is a Defense Observer
