He delivered this message while presiding over a ceremony marking the TNI’s structural expansion at the Education and Training Center of the Special Force Command (Kopassus) of the Indonesian Army (TNI-AD) in West Bandung District, West Java, on Sunday.
"To young soldiers standing in front of me, don’t ever forget our history -- how our ancestors, grandparents, and parents were once oppressed and enslaved by colonial powers. Remember that they were treated worse than animals," Prabowo said.
He stressed that although Indonesia is a peaceful and benign country, it must still strengthen its defense with a capable military to safeguard stability, territorial integrity, and natural resources.
"We have seen our wealth stolen and our kin turned against one another," he remarked, referring to past events.
On that note, Prabowo underscored that no nation can achieve or maintain independence and sovereignty without the support of a powerful defense force.
For that reason, the head of state reaffirmed his pledge to uphold the 1945 Constitution and to serve the people of Indonesia to the best of his ability.
The president also praised the young soldiers’ spirit, discipline, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the nation.
"Being a soldier is an honor, but this honor comes with a call of duty -- of sacrifice. I am proud of you all, proud of your willingness to sacrifice," he told them.
The ceremony saw the president inaugurating General Tandyo Budi Revita as TNI Deputy Commander -- the first to hold the post in 25 years.
In addition, he launched a range of military units, including six new TNI-AD regional commands, 14 Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL) regional commands, and three Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) regional commands.
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Translator: Andi F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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