"As a front-line region, Natuna holds a strategic position, and we are fully prepared to defend our homeland here," Kogabwilhan I Commander Lt. Gen. Kunto Arief Wibowo said in Natuna District, Riau Islands, on Sunday.
Speaking after a symbolic 20-by-10-meter Red and White flag was unfurled along Piwang Beach in Bunguran Timur Subdistrict, he reiterated Natuna's importance for the safeguard of Indonesia's northern borders.
The flag unfurling event was held as part of the 80th Independence Day celebrations and highlighted the military's ongoing commitment to securing Indonesia's border areas.
Wibowo also announced plans to upgrade military infrastructure in the region, including raising Raden Sadjad Air Force Base to Type A status and transforming the current Marine Corps task unit into a permanent, organic unit stationed in Natuna.
"These steps are strategic efforts to boost deterrence and strengthen national defense in the area," he said.
The visit marked his second trip to Natuna. His first visit focused on regional mapping, while the second one aimed to assess troop readiness and infrastructure development.
The visit also served to reinforce patriotism and morale among personnel stationed at Indonesia's front line, Wibowo said.
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Translator: M.Nurman, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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