He made the statement during his address at the 80th TNI Anniversary ceremony held at Monas Square, Jakarta, on Sunday.
Prabowo reminded that from the colonial era to the present day, Indonesia has continuously faced threats from foreign powers seeking to exploit the nation’s natural wealth. He noted that theft and smuggling of natural resources still occur today.
“We must no longer hide the fact that our natural resources are vast. For hundreds of years, the archipelago has been disturbed and invaded by foreign forces who came to take what is ours. Until now, much of our wealth is still being stolen, smuggled, and taken by irresponsible parties,” the President said.
In his speech, Prabowo also called on the TNI to conduct introspection and evaluate all organizational elements. He stressed the importance of the military’s role in supporting law enforcement agencies, local governments, and the central government in protecting the country’s natural resources.
“The TNI must be alert. The TNI must assist law enforcement. The TNI must help local and central governments safeguard our wealth,” he affirmed.
The President added that Indonesia’s natural wealth is a vital foundation for national progress. He underscored that wise management of these resources is key to realizing a prosperous and developed Indonesia.
“We must protect and manage our wealth responsibly so that it can eradicate poverty and help Indonesia become a modern nation in line with our national ideals,” he said.
Before an audience of over one hundred thousand troops from the three military branches, President Prabowo expressed his appreciation for the TNI’s contribution to national development.
“Thank you, all of you, who have actively supported our economic growth for the benefit of the Indonesian people. Once again, never stop training and never stop learning,” he stated.
The 80th TNI Anniversary ceremony marked the first time President Prabowo Subianto led the event since assuming office as head of state. The ceremonial stage was decorated predominantly in light blue, a color closely associated with him since the beginning of his leadership.
The ceremony began around 8 a.m. local time and was attended by more than 133,000 personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. All troops appeared in newly designed field uniforms featuring updated colors and camouflage patterns.
A total of 1,047 main weapon systems (defense equipment) were showcased in the parade. From the Army, units displayed Leopard, Harimau, Badak, and Marder tanks, MLRS Astros, Caesar 155 mm cannons, and various tactical vehicles such as Anoa, Maung, ATAV, and Bushmaster. Helicopters including Apache, Mi-17, Bell 412, Fennec, and BO-105 from the Army Aviation Command also participated.
From the Navy, amphibious tanks, Howitzer artillery, rocket launch vehicles, field hospitals, tactical vehicles, and Turkish-made Atmaca long-range anti-ship missiles were featured.
Meanwhile, the Air Force deployed 157 aircraft, including fighter jets, transport and reconnaissance planes, unmanned aerial vehicles, helicopters, and tactical combat vehicles from the Quick Reaction Forces Command (Korpasgat).
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Translator: Genta Tenri Mawangi/Mentari Dwi Gayati, Mecca Yumn
Editor: Primayanti
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