Jakarta (Antara)- Commissioner General Suhardi Alius, who was newly installed by President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) as chief of the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT), has vowed to strengthen deradicalization and anti-radicalization programs as measures to eradicate terrorism.

Radicalism is based on an ideology, which is not easy to deal with, Alius stated after his inauguration at the presidential palace, here, Wednesday.

The deradicalization program will target those familiar will or following the radical ideology, while the anti-radicalization program is meant for those who have not been influenced by radicalism.

"We will optimize (the programs). We will embrace all, including NGOs, mass organizations, and prominent religious figures. The religious community will also be involved," Alius emphasized.

Deradicalization efforts will be carried out in regions considered prone to the extremist ideology, such as Java Island and West Nusa Tenggara.

Counter-terrorism is a national responsibility, with BNPT as the agency in charge, he remarked.

Persuasive actions will be prioritized in dealing with terrorism, in addition to tough actions to repress extremists, Alius, former chief of the Polices Crime Investigation Department and deputy chief of the Jakarta Police, stated.

Alius also pledged to carry forward the programs implemented by his predecessor, former BNPT chief Tito Karnavian, who was promoted to the post of the National Police chief.

President Jokowi called Alius for a meeting after his inauguration at the State Palace.

"According to the presidents directives, terrorism is no longer merely a national but already a global threat. It means that we should implement systematic measures to strongly counter it. Of course, it should be within the framework of pluralism and nationalism," he said.

Aliuss appointment was lauded by Deputy Chairman of the Commission III of the House of Representatives Mulfachri Harahap.

"I think Mr Suhardi is one of the best high-ranking police officers and has several achievements to his credit," he pointed out.

Harahap hoped the new chief will prioritize preventive measures and will optimize intelligence services to detect terror groups or threats.

Earlier, Police Chief General Karnavian expressed belief in Alius capability, as he had good managerial and leadership skills, among other qualities.

"He has also established excellent relations with Islamic mass organizations, civil society activists, as well as the TNI (Indonesian Defense Forces), the National Police, and other institutions. His interpersonal skills are amazing," Karnavian pointed out.
(f001/INE)
(T.SYS/A/KR-BSR/A014) 20-07-2016 16:05:19

Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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