Military Observer: President Prabowo Strengthens National Defense for National Stability and Sovereignty
Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the defense sector to ensure national security and stability. This step is seen as a continuation of his commitment, which began when he led the Ministry of Defense in 2019 and continues under his presidency.
Military observer and Head of the Center for Intermestic and Diplomatic Engagement (CIDE), Anton Aliabbas, believes that President Prabowo’s attention to the defense sector is increasingly evident.
“Over the past year, there have been significant changes, particularly in the increase in the defense budget, which has reached around IDR 160 trillion,” he said.
He added that the upgrade of special forces like Kopassus and Kopasgat, the expansion of the Regional Military Command (Kodam), and other strategic steps demonstrate the government’s commitment.
Although Indonesia is known as a peaceful nation, Anton emphasized the importance of modernizing defense equipment.
“If it is not accompanied by a commitment to modernization, there is concern that the budget increase will not be in line with improvements in the quality of defense,” he explained.
He emphasized that defense equipment procurement should involve state-owned enterprises (SOEs) so that the benefits are also felt by the national economy.
Beyond the military aspect, Anton highlighted President Prabowo’s role on the international stage. He stated that Prabowo has actively pushed for the resolution of global conflicts such as Israel–Palestine and Russia–Ukraine, while still paying attention to domestic issues, including poverty, online gambling, and drugs.
“He has strong capital—a military background, sensitivity, and experience in international forums—which makes him a force to be reckoned with in the region,” Anton said.
Support for this policy came from various groups. B. Surya, a listener from Bogor, appreciated the attention to the defense budget but hoped that the welfare of soldiers would also be a priority.
“The TNI (Indonesian National Armed Forces) must be ready for combat, but also be an important part of the nation,” he said.
A man from North Sumatra believed that the defense focus should also include food security, social issues, and protection from poverty and corruption.
Meanwhile, Masmuk from Bandung assessed that President Prabowo has demonstrated consistent leadership since becoming Minister of Defense. “He has strengthened the military while also paying attention to the people’s needs for food, clothing, and housing,” he said.
President Prabowo’s steps to strengthen defense are considered in line with the mandate of the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution, namely to protect the entire nation, advance the general welfare, improve the nation’s intellectual life, and contribute to world peace.
With a combination of defense equipment modernization, international diplomacy, and concern for the welfare of the people, this policy direction is expected to form a solid foundation for Indonesia’s future security and sovereignty.
