The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) affirm their commitment to providing a sense of security for the community
By: Indah Prameswari )*
In recent days, Indonesia has been rocked by acts of anarchy and looting, causing public unrest and material losses. This situation has drawn serious government attention. In response to these social, political, and security dynamics, President Prabowo issued instructions for the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) to remain united, work together, and be present to maintain security and well-being for all Indonesians. The synergy between these two institutions is seen as a key foundation for ensuring national sovereignty and public order.
In his directive, the President emphasized the importance of taking firm action against those attempting to disrupt national security. From a strategic policy perspective, the order prioritizes TNI-Polri cooperation, while also emphasizing that cross-sector coordination is no longer merely an option but an urgent necessity that must be implemented consistently.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) are directed to always be responsive to any potential vulnerability, take decisive and proportional action, and prioritize the interests of the nation over sectoral interests. This directive also reinforces the principle that state officials must not hesitate to exercise their legally mandated authority. Firm, measured, and legally binding measures are key to maintaining national stability and ensuring a sense of security for all citizens.
In line with President Prabowo’s directive, Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, conveyed the TNI and Polri’s commitment to maintaining public order and security. One concrete example is the implementation of large-scale joint patrols across Indonesia. He stated that these operations are carried out to ensure public safety from the threat of rioters and anarchists. The TNI and Polri are present to protect every person, every property, and every public facility.
The joint patrols are not only interpreted as a preventative measure, but also as a form of strengthening solidarity in the field. The joint presence of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) demonstrates that national security cannot be maintained in isolation but must be achieved through a solid, collective effort. Through this collaboration, it is hoped that public spaces will be truly free from the potential for anarchy, vandalism, or other acts that could disrupt social stability.
The Deputy Chief of Police’s statement demonstrates that the commitment to maintaining public order extends beyond rhetoric and is realized through concrete actions, including surveillance, patrols, and cross-regional coordination. This aligns with the National Police’s primary duties, as stipulated in Law No. 2 of 2002 concerning the Indonesian National Police, namely, maintaining public security and order, enforcing the law, and providing protection, guidance, and services to the community.
At the regional level, this commitment is also being translated into concrete action, particularly in the capital. Jakarta Metro Police Chief Inspector General Asep Ade Suheri explained that the large-scale patrol program, “Jaga Jakarta,” was implemented to protect residents and ensure a sense of security throughout community activities. These patrols aim to anticipate potential vulnerabilities and ensure that Jakarta residents can resume their activities peacefully following the recent unsettling events.
The harmonious relationship between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) and their commitment to maintaining security are also evident in West Java. This was evident even before President Prabowo issued a directive regarding TNI-Polri solidarity. The Commander of the III/Siliwangi Military Command, Major General Kosasih, visited the West Java Regional Police Headquarters on Friday (August 29th), where he was welcomed by the West Java Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Rudi Setiawan. This meeting affirmed a shared commitment to maintaining security, order, and stability in West Java.
Major General Kosasih stated that the TNI and Polri must continue to work together, not only to maintain security but also to support development and provide a sense of security to the community. He added that this togetherness is a concrete manifestation of commitment to the nation and state.
Overall, the central government emphasized the solidarity of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (Polri) as pillars of national resilience. The TNI and Polri reinforced this message by conducting large-scale patrols as a form of collective action. At the regional level, the implementation of this policy was directly visible through the increased presence of officers in the field. All of this demonstrates that the commitment to maintaining security extends beyond the central government to the regions.
With the solid synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in various regions, it is hoped that in the future, the public will not only feel physically secure but also develop confidence that the government is truly serious about protecting their interests. From the central to the regional levels, the message is consistent: maintaining sovereignty and public order is a shared priority.
This consistency also symbolizes that the TNI and Polri work not only to maintain stability but also to build public trust. This trust grows when people feel calm in their activities, see the presence of law enforcement officers in their communities, and witness the government seriously protecting the people’s interests. With this foundation, sovereignty and public order can be realized through a strong commitment from the TNI and Polri.
)* The author is a security observer
