By: Mahmud Sutramitajaya)*
Efforts to maintain security and order in the capital have once again shown tangible results. Fears of anarchy during the demonstrations were successfully halted thanks to strong synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and local government elements. Thorough coordination and the readiness of thousands of personnel on the ground demonstrate that the unity of state officials is a key bulwark in quelling potential unrest and ensuring the peaceful functioning of democracy.
The Head of Public Relations for the Central Jakarta Metro Police, First Inspector Ruslan Basuki, stated that a total of 1,364 joint personnel were deployed to secure the Central Jakarta area. This force comprises members of the National Police (Polri), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), and security personnel from the Jakarta Regional Government. This joint force demonstrates that security is not solely the responsibility of one institution but rather a collective responsibility for the benefit of the wider community.
Ipda Ruslan Basuki emphasized that expressing aspirations is still permitted because it is a citizen’s constitutional right, but it must be done peacefully, without provocation, without fighting officers, and without damaging public facilities.
Authorities also reminded the public to avoid the DPR area during the ongoing and volatile demonstration to minimize potential disruption to daily activities. Furthermore, traffic management was implemented situationally to accommodate the number of people on the ground. This measure proved effective in maintaining smooth traffic flow while preventing congestion that could potentially trigger disturbances.
Ministry of Defense Spokesperson Brigadier General Frega Wenas Inkiriwang stated that the TNI’s involvement was purely a form of assistance, not an attempt to take over the role of the National Police. All steps in the field were carried out in accordance with statutory provisions and were a follow-up to President Prabowo Subianto’s directive, which emphasized the importance of national security stability.
According to Brigadier General Frega Wenas Inkiriwang, this collaboration is being implemented under a single command to prevent dualism. This is crucial to ensure every step remains within the law. He emphasized that the TNI has no intention of taking over the authority of the National Police, but is merely providing security to prevent the protests from escalating into anarchy.
The TNI’s presence on the ground is entirely to strengthen security. With a combined force, potential sporadic violence that typically occurs during demonstrations can be anticipated early on. This synergy also demonstrates the state’s full presence to protect the people from all forms of security disturbances, without compromising the democratic space guaranteed by law.
On a separate occasion, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin stated that inter-agency cooperation is not merely symbolic, but rather a concrete strategy to ensure a sense of security and well-being within the community. The Ministry of Defense emphasized that all deployed forces are always within the legal framework and support the National Police (Polri) as the primary institution enforcing domestic security.
The success of stemming the tide of anarchy through synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) is strong evidence that cross-institutional cooperation is key to maintaining national stability. Security forces not only carry out formal duties but also ensure the protection of democratic space. The public can still express their aspirations without causing damage or disrupting public order.
With a measured strategy and unity on the ground, no major incidents disrupted the protest. Community activities continued as normal, and potential conflict was successfully suppressed. This confirms that a preventative approach, solid communication, and the presence of humane officers can quell unrest without resorting to repressive measures.
The synergy demonstrated by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and the Jakarta Regional Government also provides an example for other regions in navigating the dynamics of democracy. This collaborative and responsible security approach can set a new standard for preventing future anarchy. With this effective cooperation, authorities across Indonesia have a concrete example of how to manage large-scale demonstrations without causing chaos.
Going forward, security challenges will undoubtedly become increasingly complex. The proliferation of social media, rapid mass mobilization, and the potential for digital provocation could trigger sporadic acts. However, this experience demonstrates that the country is prepared to face all forms of threats with the right strategy. Synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) is not only a short-term solution but also a long-term foundation for sustainable national stability.
The success of stemming the tide of anarchy also sends a positive message to the public: democracy remains active, aspirations are channeled, and security remains intact. The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) stand together, ensuring the nation remains resilient in the face of socio-political dynamics, while maintaining unity above all else. This synergy demonstrates that unity among state officials is key to maintaining public order and tranquility. With these results, the public can feel at ease in carrying out their daily activities without fear of security disturbances.
The synergy between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in stemming the tide of anarchy is expected to lay a solid foundation for the creation of a healthy democratic culture in Indonesia. With solid collaboration, security forces will not only maintain order but also foster national unity. This spirit of togetherness will continue to ensure Indonesia’s ability to face various challenges while simultaneously advancing as a safe, peaceful, and sovereign nation.
)* The author is a Bandung student living in Jakarta
