"As the commander-in-chief of the Indonesian Defense Forces, I harbor high hopes and always support the transformation of TNI for its strengthening," President Jokowi noted at the State Palace here on Monday while observing the commemoration of TNI’s anniversary.
Attendees at the commemoration ceremony comprised Vice President Ma'ruf Amin; Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs Mahfud MD; Minister of Defense Prabowo Subianto; and Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko.
Also present at the ceremony were TNI Commander Marshal Hadi Tjahjanto, Army Chief of Staff (KSAD) General Andika Perkasa, Naval Chief of Staff (KSAL) Admiral TNI Yudo Margono, Air Force Chief of Staff (KSAU) Marshal TNI Fadjar Prasetyo, and TNI soldiers, who received stars awards.
TNI officials and personnel from various TNI headquarters across Indonesia and task forces abroad partook in the event virtually.
"I have always said on various occasions that the world is moving very fast and dynamically. To this end, transformation of the TNI must always be conducted in accordance with the dynamics of the strategic environment, threats, and the developments in military technology," the president emphasized.
Over the last five years, the TNI had brought about organizational transformation by forming new organizational units, he pointed out.
"We have formed new combat organizations, such as the 3rd Kostrad Division, 3rd Air Force Operational Command, 3rd Naval Fleet, and Third Marine troops. We have formed a joint force of the TNI, especially the three Joint Regional Defense Commands, three Air Force's Drone Squadrons, and a TNI Cyber Unit," the president noted.
The formation of those new TNI units mirrored the government's commitment to continually supporting the transformation of the organization aimed at strengthening its roles.
The nation requires professional, well-educated, and trained TNI, he emphasized, adding that TNI personnel must continue to hone their capabilities.
The president also thanked TNI soldiers for always being ready to fulfill the call of duty and their unbending loyalty to guard the Pancasila state ideology, NKRI (the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia), the 1945 Constitution, and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity) slogan.
"Those, who are committed to serving in the hinterland regions, border areas, and frontier islands, as well as those serving abroad as members of peacekeeping troops," the president stated. Related news: TNI should uphold integrity, professionalism: House speaker
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Translator: Desca LN, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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