Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian government has decided not to form a dedicated cyber military branch like Singapore to address security and defense issues in cyberspace, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has confirmed.

Speaking at the headquarters of the Ministry of Defense in Jakarta on Tuesday, he informed that the government prefers the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to focus on enhancing the cyber capabilities of the Army (TNI AD), Navy (TNI AL), and Air Force (TNI AU).

In this regard, the minister emphasized that each TNI service branch is authorized to employ civilians with relevant expertise to strengthen the country’s cyber defense posture.

“In other words, boosting Indonesia’s defense posture requires contributions from both civilians and military personnel. The TNI needs specialized talent in this field, especially during national emergencies,” Sjamsoeddin said.

To that end, the Defense Ministry has forged a cyber defense partnership with the Singaporean government, he informed. He said he believes Singapore has more advanced capabilities in the area.

According to Sjamsoeddin, the cooperation could translate into personnel exchanges for cyber defense education or joint training programs. He expressed optimism that the collaboration would help Indonesia improve its capacity to counter threats in cyberspace.

The retired Army lieutenant general hosted Singaporean Minister of Defense, Chan Chun Sing, at his office in Jakarta on Tuesday. Before their bilateral meeting, the two attended a welcome ceremony, where the national anthems of both countries were played.

Earlier, on July 22, 2025, in Jakarta, Sjamsoeddin had met with Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, the Chief of Defence Force of the Singapore Armed Forces, which includes the Digital and Intelligence Service — a cyber-focused military branch established in 2022.

Their meeting touched upon opportunities for cooperation in cyber defense.



Related news: Indonesia seeks to learn cyber defense from Singapore

Related news: Minister urges stronger cybersecurity for national defense

Related news: Indonesia's TNI eyes cyber defense cooperation with Japan