Presiding over a ceremony marking the TNI’s 80th anniversary at the National Monument (Monas) Square in Jakarta on Sunday morning, Prabowo emphasized the importance of vigilance and continuous advancement within the military.
“TNI must prepare, strengthen, and fortify itself by mastering all necessary fields of expertise, keeping up with the times, and following technological developments. Our military cannot afford to fall behind or lose its vigilance,” Prabowo told thousands of soldiers gathered at Monas.
Highlighting the growing importance of non-traditional defense domains, the President urged all TNI branches to stay abreast of developments in science and technology, particularly in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
“I want you to adapt to cyber technologies and keep up with advances in artificial intelligence. You must not fall behind in this matter,” he asserted.
The head of state also expressed the nation’s and government’s gratitude to TNI personnel for their dedication and pivotal role in safeguarding Indonesia.
“I would like to express my appreciation and gratitude to TNI for its achievements. The TNI has always been present in critical moments and will never hesitate to put the interests of the nation, the state, and the people above all else,” Prabowo remarked.
Lieutenant General Bambang Trisnohadi, Commander of the Joint Regional Defense Command III, served as the parade commander during the ceremony.
Earlier, Head of the TNI Information Office Major General Freddy Ardianzah said that the military deployed 1,047 units of defense equipment for various demonstrations and displays during the event.
These included tactical land vehicles, tanks, helicopters, transport aircraft, and fighter jets such as the F-16 and T-50i Golden Eagle.
He added that a total of 133,480 participants took part in the commemoration, including nearly nine thousand TNI personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Related news: Prabowo urges TNI to reform outdated structures, embrace technology
Related news: Prabowo reaffirms TNI's role as backbone of national defense
Translator: Mentari D, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
