The ministry's information bureau on Friday informed that the minister conveyed his plan directly to the ranks of the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) in Papua.
On Thursday, Sjamsoeddin visited the Yohanis Kapiyau Air Base in Timika, Papua, to review defense facilities in Papua and brief TNI ranks in the region, including commanders and unit commanders.
He said that strengthening the defense system in Papua is not merely about securing the region but also ensuring stability, which would have an impact on the entire region.
He also emphasized Papua's importance for Indonesia in the geopolitical, geostrategic, and geoeconomic contexts.
"Papua is an integral part of the sovereignty of this country with invaluable strategic value. We must ensure a strong defense system in Papua to tackle all potential threats," Sjamsoeddin told TNI ranks in Papua, according to a statement released by his office on Friday.
At the meeting, he also reminded TNI leaders to maintain synergy between the central and regional commands and ensure security and sovereignty in Papua.
He advised them to continue improving readiness and be professional in carrying out their duties to preserve the country's sovereignty, especially in Papua.
Sjamsoeddin also reviewed projects to improve infrastructure and facilities at Yohanis Kapiyau Air Force Base, including surveillance sensors and intrusion systems.
During the activity, the minister was accompanied by head of the Defense Facilities Agency of the Ministry of Defense, Vice Marshal Yusuf Jauhari.
His visit to Papua was part of his working visit to several eastern regions of Indonesia.
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Translator: Genta Tenri M, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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