By: Rivka Mayangsari*
Efforts to maintain national stability are inseparable from the vital roles of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri). In the post-demonstration situation that recently spread across several regions of the country, the synergy of these two institutions reaffirms their role as the main pillars guarding the nation’s security, unity, and sovereignty.
The Head of the TNI Public Information Center, Major General Freddy Ardianzah, emphasized that up to now, TNI and Polri remain solid in maintaining stability and national security. According to him, the consistency and loyalty of these two institutions in carrying out the constitutional mandate is clear proof that the country’s defense and security are on the right track. This solidarity, Freddy said, is not merely a symbol of institutional cooperation but a bond born from a shared awareness of the importance of safeguarding the peace of the people and the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
A similar statement was conveyed by the Head of Public Relations Division of Polri, Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, S.I.K., who affirmed that Polri is committed to strengthening synergy with TNI in overseeing stability after demonstrations. He emphasized that every security step taken by the apparatus is always carried out with professionalism and humanism, prioritizing the protection of civilians, safeguarding public facilities, and preventing potential anarchic actions that could harm the wider community.
Brigjen Trunoyudo also added that this cooperation is not just rhetoric but manifested in concrete actions on the ground. Large-scale joint patrols, supervision of integrated security posts, and quick coordination in dealing with emergency situations are integral parts of this synergy. Through these measures, communities in various regions can once again feel peace and confidence that the state is present among them.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Naek Pamen Simanjuntak, Head of Provost Division of Polri’s Internal Affairs, stressed the importance of close coordination between TNI and Polri in overseeing citizen activities. He viewed this collaboration as a defensive shield capable of preventing the escalation of conflicts after demonstrations. With joint patrols and integrated security posts, the potential for riots can be minimized so that the public’s right to live peacefully, safely, and comfortably is guaranteed.
Furthermore, Naek Pamen underlined that the presence of the apparatus in the field is not just to secure the area but also serves as a symbol of protection for the people. According to him, the community must feel protected by the state apparatus, not threatened. Therefore, TNI and Polri always strive to show a humane face, close to the people, yet firm against parties attempting to disrupt stability.
The synergy between TNI and Polri carries a broader strategic dimension, not only to quell potential riots. This cooperation also plays an important role in maintaining national unity amidst globalization, advances in information technology, and threats of transnational ideological infiltration that could potentially divide national unity. With solid cohesion, these two institutions become the frontline in countering all forms of threats that could weaken NKRI from within or outside.
The success in maintaining stability cannot be separated from community support. Collective awareness to respect the law, channel aspirations peacefully, and not be easily provoked by misleading issues on social media are important parts of building national security. TNI and Polri always open dialogue spaces with the public, especially to provide understanding about the importance of public order. This aligns with the government’s commitment to balance democratic freedoms with the responsibility to maintain shared security.
In a global context, the TNI-Polri synergy also shows that Indonesia has a strong defense and security system. While many other countries face instability due to internal conflicts, Indonesia manages to demonstrate relatively well-maintained stability. This condition ultimately boosts international confidence in the investment climate and national economic growth.
It is undeniable that demonstrations are part of democratic dynamics. However, when such actions turn anarchic, the greatest losers are the people themselves. Damaged public facilities, disrupted public services, and social unrest are just some of the negative impacts of uncontrolled actions. At this point, the role of TNI and Polri becomes crucial—to ensure that aspirations can still be conveyed without sacrificing national stability.
Going forward, the TNI-Polri synergy is believed to be further strengthened. Cross-sector collaboration, the use of modern security technology, and persuasive approaches to the public will be the main strategies in facing riot threats. With a combination of firmness and humanism, TNI and Polri will remain the adhesive of national unity, ensuring Indonesia stands strong amid various contemporary challenges.
Thus, national stability is not just a slogan but a reality directly felt by the people. Amid the continuous changes in political, social, and economic dynamics, the TNI-Polri synergy stands as a solid pillar guarding that NKRI remains safe, peaceful, and sovereign.
*) Social observer
