“They are ready to carry out duty,” Sjamsoeddin noted in written remarks cited in Jakarta on Thursday.
He made the statement after conducting direct inspections of several battalions, including the base of YTP 805/KSW in South Manokwari District, West Papua, on Tuesday (May 26).
According to the minister, the visit was aimed at evaluating operational readiness, facility development, and personnel preparedness, while also reviewing the implementation of community development programs.
Alongside General Revita, the defense minister took time to view multiple facilities at the compound, including the kitchen, training grounds, and barracks. He also reviewed personnel meals and their preparation mechanisms.
Following the inspections, Sjamsoeddin gathered soldiers for a briefing, urging them to make concrete contributions to local communities.
“The presence of territorial development battalions is intended not only to strengthen defense, but also to help improve public welfare through education, healthcare, agriculture, and livestock initiatives,” Sjamsoeddin told the personnel.
Earlier, the Indonesian Army (TNI AD) reported the establishment of 155 YTPs across various regions, part of a broader plan to build 593 units nationwide.
“The development process is proceeding gradually and remains on track with our plan,” Head of the TNI AD Information Office Brig. Gen. Donny Pramono told ANTARA in Jakarta on April 23.
He said the army had designated YTP expansion as a strategic program, noting that the battalions are tasked not only with maintaining security and order but also with supporting regional governments and communities in improving welfare and infrastructure.
The battalions, he continued, are stationed in several districts and cities, with a focus on border regions to help the central government realize equitable development across Indonesia.
“TNI AD is currently preparing land and supporting facilities for YTP, units” Pramono added, highlighting ongoing efforts to boost the development initiative.
He expressed hope that all army personnel will maintain synergy to meet the YTP establishment target this year.
Related news: Defense minister, TNI deputy chief mark Eid al-Adha in West Papua
Translator: Walda M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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