Encouraging Public Order in Maintaining Order Ahead of Heroes’ Day
By: Yolanda Pradhanty
As Heroes’ Day approaches, which falls every November 10th, the spirit of maintaining order and security is a shared responsibility of all elements of the nation. This historic moment is not only an opportunity to commemorate the heroes’ struggles, but also a reminder of the importance of citizens’ sense of responsibility for peace and order in their respective communities. In this context, synergy between law enforcement officers and the community plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, orderly, and conducive atmosphere throughout Indonesia.
The Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) is a clear example of how the police are committed to maintaining security without neglecting the public’s right to express their opinions. The Head of Public Relations for the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto, emphasized that the National Police always respects citizens’ freedom of expression as long as it is carried out in an orderly manner and in accordance with the law. A persuasive approach is a priority to ensure that all community activities proceed peacefully, without causing potential social tension. This attitude demonstrates the police’s maturity in balancing civil liberties and public stability.
Central Jakarta Metro Police Chief, Senior Commissioner Susatyo Purnomo Condro, emphasized the importance of self-control among protesters and speakers to avoid being easily provoked. To secure the activities around the DPR/MPR RI Building, 1,464 joint personnel were deployed with strict instructions not to carry firearms and to prioritize dialogue and humanistic communication. This measure reflects the National Police’s modern approach, which prioritizes protecting community rights while maintaining public order. Therefore, the commemoration of Heroes’ Day is an opportune moment for all parties to foster collective awareness that security is not solely the responsibility of the police, but also the result of active citizen participation.
Meanwhile, the Bangka Belitung Islands Regional Police demonstrated a strategic approach through an audience between the Bangka Belitung Regional Police Chief, Inspector General Viktor T. Sihombing, and religious leaders such as Reverend Agustinus and Father Marsel. The meeting served as a powerful symbol of collaboration between security forces and religious leaders in maintaining social harmony amidst diversity. During the meeting, Police Chief Viktor emphasized the importance of synergy across community elements to strengthen social resilience and reduce the potential for horizontal conflict. Religious leaders play a fundamental role in providing moral and spiritual enlightenment to the community so that they are not easily influenced by provocative issues that could undermine national unity.
Reverend Agustinus believes that maintaining security and order is a concrete manifestation of respect for heroic values. For him, true heroes today are those who courageously maintain peace, reject violence, and prioritize dialogue when addressing differences. Similarly, Father Marsel emphasized the need for the community to continuously strengthen the spirit of mutual cooperation and social empathy to create an environment of mutual protection. The presence of interfaith leaders in the dialogue emphasized that security and order are not solely the responsibility of the authorities, but rather the moral responsibility of all citizens.
Public involvement in maintaining order is key to strengthening national stability. The National Police cannot work alone without the support of citizens. In the context of a dynamic social life, public participation can be demonstrated through simple actions such as obeying regulations, refraining from spreading hoaxes, and courageously reporting potential security disturbances in their neighborhoods. Disciplined behavior and social responsibility will foster a culture of order that is the foundation for national progress.
On the other hand, mass media and social media also have a significant responsibility in maintaining a conducive atmosphere. In the digital age, public perception of security is often influenced by rapidly circulating information. Therefore, information dissemination must prioritize verification and education, rather than provocation. The public is expected to be intelligent consumers of information, not easily provoked by misleading narratives, especially ahead of important events like Heroes’ Day, which are often exploited by certain parties to spread sensitive issues.
