The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) Unite to Prevent Provocation and Ensure Public Order
By: Dhita Karuniawati )*
Security and order are essential foundations for the sustainability of national development. Without stability, government programs in the economic, social, and political sectors will struggle to run optimally. In this context, the roles of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) are vital. These two institutions serve not only as the vanguard in maintaining sovereignty and security, but also as symbols of national solidarity in facing all forms of threats, including provocations that could incite anarchy within society.
Since the reform era, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) have strengthened their commitment to synergy through various coordination mechanisms, joint training, and the handling of social conflicts in the field. This synergy demonstrates that they are not merely separate institutions with their respective duties and functions, but rather complementary pillars. The TNI, focused on national defense, and the Polri, tasked with maintaining public order and security, form an effective combination in countering provocations that could potentially disrupt national stability.
A concrete example of this collaboration is evident during large-scale demonstrations in various regions. The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) are present together, not to suppress public aspirations, but rather to ensure that the expression of opinions proceeds peacefully, orderly, and does not escalate into violence. With solid coordination, authorities are able to detect potential provocations early and take appropriate preventive measures without escalating tensions.
One of the biggest challenges today is the increasing prevalence of provocation via social media. Sensitive issues can quickly be twisted by irresponsible parties to incite division, even leading to anarchic actions in the real world. Hoaxes, hate speech, and propaganda targeting public emotions often fuel instability.
The South Sumatra Regional Police affirmed their commitment to maintaining public security and order (Kamtibmas) through Operation Aman Nusa I, which involved joint personnel, including Brimob.
South Sumatra Regional Police Public Relations Chief, Senior Commissioner Nandang Mu’min Wijaya, stated that all police officers are required to prioritize a “cooling system” strategy as a primary measure to prevent potential public order and security disturbances. This cooling system is like the radiator in a vehicle engine. If social tensions escalate, the police are present to cool the situation to prevent potential conflict.
Nandang emphasized that this operation focused on preemptive and preventive measures rather than repression. The National Police were present to maintain a conducive situation, close off opportunities for provocateurs seeking to disrupt the peace, and ensure the public could carry out their activities safely and comfortably.
On the other hand, cyber patrols are also being intensified to counter hoaxes, provocations, and hate speech on social media, while dialogue patrols are being conducted by visiting residents directly.
Nandang stated that we must secure both the real world and the virtual world. The public must not be alarmed by false rumors or calls for division. Therefore, the role of the Special Crimes and Public Relations Department is crucial in strengthening security.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) cannot work alone. Public support is key to preventing provocation and maintaining public order. The public can play a role in simple ways, such as resisting the influence of rumors, reporting potential disturbances to authorities, and actively building cross-group communication to strengthen unity.
Nandang stated that the success of this operation depends not only on the police but also requires public participation. He urged all elements of society to participate in maintaining peace, disseminating positive information, and strengthening communication. The National Police cannot work alone, as security is a shared responsibility.
With Operation Aman Nusa I, the South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) aims to create a calm, controlled, and conflict-free social environment, both physically and digitally. This demonstrates the presence of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) not only with force but also with a professional, humane, and preventative approach.
Joint patrols under Operation Aman Nusa I are being conducted in various regions. These patrols target crowded areas, community centers, and main traffic routes. These activities aim to prevent provocative actions, the spread of hate speech, and potential disturbances to public order and security that could disrupt a safe and conducive environment within the community.
In addition to patrols, officers also engaged with residents and urged them to use social media wisely, maintain harmony, and reject all forms of provocation and hate speech. Residents were also urged to immediately report any suspicious activity to the police or call 110.
Building mutual trust between the authorities and the community is crucial. When citizens believe that the TNI and Polri are working for the common good, public participation in maintaining security will naturally grow. This collaboration ultimately creates a more peaceful, conducive, and productive environment.
The solidarity of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in preventing provocation and ensuring public order is not merely slogans, but a real national necessity. Amid increasingly complex social, political, and digital dynamics, the synergy between these two institutions serves as the last bastion of national stability. With close cooperation, a humanistic approach, and full public support, provocations that could potentially trigger anarchy can be prevented early on.
Maintaining stability will be Indonesia’s primary asset for continued progress, realizing its development goals, and maintaining unity in diversity. A united TNI and Polri (Indonesian National Armed Forces) are not only a symbol of security but also a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in protecting all its citizens.
*) The author is a contributor to the Indonesian Strategic Information Study Institute
