"We wish to assure that we have our ears and eyes in the outermost islands to inform us of any development and about the latest situation in these areas," he said at the Presidential Office after meeting President Joko Widodo along with a number of ministers concerned with defense, to discuss the matter.
During the meeting General Nurmantyo said TNI (defense forces) explained the state of affairs regarding its main arms and defense system equipment.
He explained that the government and the TNI need to strengthen several naval bases in a number of outermost islands bordering Australia, such as Liran, Leti, Wetar, Kisar and Alor islands.
Indonesia, he said, has only two village-based headquarters and a naval base with limited equipment in the areas.
Gator Nurmantyo also underlined the importance of developing air force bases in the eastern Indonesian periphery regions, such as Biak, Morotai and Merauke.
"What is clear is that in pursuing our development efforts, we will be directed to the eastern region which is empty, such as ground support equipment development," he said.
The TNI commander said TNI would inspect the regions with regard to setting up strategic air force bases there.
"The planning will be done this year and the program will depend upon the revised national budget later," he said.
On this occasion, President Joko Widodo emphasized the importance of calculating the cost for the development of naval and air force bases properly, transparently and meticulously with a view to make savings.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2016
