President Prabowo Subianto Reaffirms TNI as the Indivisible ‘People’s Army’ at 81st Anniversary

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia – President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, delivered a powerful message at the 81st anniversary commemoration of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), unequivocally declaring TNI as the "people’s army." The solemn ceremony, held on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the TNI Headquarters in Cilangkap, East Jakarta, served as a poignant reminder of the armed forces’ foundational principles and enduring commitment to the nation.

President Prabowo, addressing a formation of military personnel and dignitaries, emphasized the deep-rooted connection between TNI and the Indonesian populace, a bond he described as historically inseparable. His remarks resonated with the core identity of TNI, echoing sentiments that have defined its existence since its inception.

"Brothers and sisters, the strength of TNI, since its birth, has never been separated from the people. TNI is the people’s army. TNI is the national army. TNI is the warrior army," President Prabowo asserted, his voice firm and clear, underscoring the tripartite essence of Indonesia’s defense force.

The 81st Anniversary Address: A Chronology of Commitment

The 81st anniversary of TNI was a moment of reflection and renewed dedication. The event commenced with traditional military protocols, including a flag-hoisting ceremony, an inspection of troops, and a moment of silence for fallen heroes. President Prabowo, as the Commander-in-Chief, presided over the proceedings, his presence symbolizing the state’s highest respect and appreciation for the armed forces.

The choice of October 5th for the celebration holds historical significance, marking the official establishment of TNI. This year’s commemoration, however, gained additional resonance with President Prabowo, himself a former military general, at the helm of the nation. His address was the focal point, setting the tone for TNI’s future trajectory and reaffirming its foundational ethos.

President Prabowo’s speech meticulously aligned with the chosen theme for the 81st anniversary: ‘TNI kuat bersama rakyat, Indonesia berdaulat, adil dan makmur’ (TNI strong with the people, Indonesia sovereign, just, and prosperous). This theme encapsulates the comprehensive vision for national security and development, where the armed forces are not merely an instrument of defense but an integral partner in nation-building and societal welfare.

Throughout his address, President Prabowo systematically elaborated on each facet of TNI’s identity, drawing a direct line from its historical genesis to its contemporary roles. He articulated a vision where the military’s strength is inextricably linked to the trust and support of the people it serves, and where its ultimate purpose is the protection and prosperity of the Indonesian nation.

Historical Roots and Enduring Principles: TNI as a People’s Movement

The President’s assertion that TNI is the "people’s army" is not merely a slogan but a profound recognition of its historical origins. Unlike many conventional armies formed by established states, TNI emerged from the grassroots struggle for independence. Born out of the Badan Keamanan Rakyat (BKR – People’s Security Body) and subsequently the Tentara Keamanan Rakyat (TKR – People’s Security Army) in 1945, the nascent armed forces were a direct response to the nation’s call for self-defense against colonial powers.

During those formative years, the young republic lacked the sophisticated state machinery and financial resources to sustain a modern military. As President Prabowo highlighted, "TNI stood from the people, without being paid. The entire Indonesian people provided sustenance for TNI." This historical truth underscores a unique bond, where the soldiers were volunteers, often fed and supported directly by local communities, forging an unbreakable covenant of mutual reliance. This era cemented the principle that the armed forces were an extension of the people’s will to be free and sovereign.

This legacy, Prabowo underscored, means that the sacrifice of a soldier transcends individual or familial interests. "Your soul, your body no longer belongs to you, no longer belongs to your family. Your soul and body belong to the Indonesian people," he declared, encapsulating the profound ethos of selfless service. This spiritual ownership by the nation demands that TNI personnel remain perpetually connected to the populace, understanding their struggles and responding to their needs. "Because of that, never be far from the people; you must be amidst the people. TNI soldiers must always listen to the difficulties of the people, must be present when the people need them," Prabowo emphasized, laying down a clear directive for every service member.

Supporting Data: TNI’s Multifaceted Role Beyond the Battlefield

President Prabowo vividly illustrated TNI’s commitment to the people by recounting numerous instances where soldiers have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with civilians during times of crisis. These examples serve as powerful supporting data for his assertion that TNI is indeed the people’s army, demonstrating its vital role far beyond conventional warfare.

"I have personally witnessed how TNI soldiers are present among the people during disasters," Prabowo stated, listing a litany of natural calamities that frequently afflict the Indonesian archipelago: floods, landslides, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and forest and land fires (karhutla). In these moments of profound vulnerability, TNI’s response is often immediate, decisive, and driven by an inherent sense of duty rather than explicit command.

He commended the initiative displayed by TNI personnel: "Brothers and sisters come without being ordered; every commander takes the initiative; every panglima (commander) does not wait for orders from above. The difficulties of the people are the responsibility of the Indonesian National Armed Forces." This speaks volumes about the decentralized yet highly effective response mechanism within TNI, where the welfare of the people is paramount.

In practical terms, TNI’s involvement in disaster relief operations is comprehensive:

• Search and Rescue: Rapid deployment of specialized units to locate and extract victims from collapsed structures, submerged areas, or remote disaster zones.
• Logistical Support: Utilizing military assets like helicopters, transport planes, and naval vessels to deliver essential aid, food, medical supplies, and personnel to isolated communities.
• Infrastructure Repair: Restoring vital links, such as building temporary bridges or clearing debris from roads, ensuring access for aid distribution and recovery efforts.
• Medical Assistance: Setting up field hospitals and mobile clinics to provide immediate medical care to the injured and displaced.
• Evacuation and Shelter: Facilitating the evacuation of affected populations and establishing temporary shelters, ensuring basic needs are met.
• Firefighting: Deploying ground troops and air assets to combat extensive forest and land fires, often in challenging terrains.

These actions, Prabowo noted, often occur in perilous conditions, where soldiers themselves face risks, even sacrificing their lives. "TNI soldiers are present to build broken roads, present when conditions are still dangerous. They even sacrifice their lives and bodies to help the people," he affirmed, highlighting the ultimate act of devotion. It is in these critical moments, he observed, that the true nature of the relationship between TNI and the people becomes undeniably clear. "In such difficult times, the people see who truly stands with them."

Official Responses: President Prabowo’s Vision for a Stronger, More Connected Military

President Prabowo’s speech was not merely a historical reflection but also an official directive and a statement of his administration’s vision for TNI. As both the President and a former military leader, his words carry immense weight, signaling the government’s commitment to reinforcing TNI’s role as a protector and partner to the people.

His expressions of gratitude were heartfelt: "I convey my thanks, my respect to you all. Continue to be the people’s army. A strong army is an army that is close to the people." This dual emphasis – on being the ‘people’s army’ and on the strength derived from that proximity – forms the cornerstone of his policy for national defense.

Under President Prabowo’s leadership, this philosophy is expected to translate into several key areas:

1. Enhanced Training and Civic Action: Future training programs will likely integrate more civic action exercises, ensuring soldiers are not only proficient in defense but also adept at humanitarian assistance and community engagement.
2. Resource Allocation for Disaster Preparedness: The government is expected to prioritize funding and resources for TNI’s disaster response capabilities, including specialized equipment, rapid deployment units, and inter-agency coordination mechanisms.
3. Strengthening Civil-Military Relations: Initiatives aimed at fostering greater understanding and cooperation between TNI and civilian communities will likely be encouraged, through social programs, community development projects, and open dialogues.
4. Upholding Professionalism and Discipline: While emphasizing closeness to the people, Prabowo’s military background also suggests a strong focus on maintaining high standards of professionalism, discipline, and ethical conduct within TNI.

This vision aims to create a military that is not only robust in defending national sovereignty but also deeply embedded in the fabric of society, contributing actively to national development and societal well-being. It represents a modern interpretation of the dwifungsi (dual function) concept, focusing squarely on the positive contributions of the armed forces to civic life without venturing into past political roles.

Implications for National Security and Development

The President’s pronouncements at the 81st TNI Anniversary carry significant implications for Indonesia’s national security, social cohesion, and overall development.

Domestically:

• Enhanced National Resilience: A military deeply integrated with the populace creates a robust national resilience framework. In times of crisis, whether from external threats or internal disasters, the synergy between TNI and civilians ensures a more coordinated and effective national response.
• Strengthened National Unity: By consistently acting as a unifying force in times of distress and engaging in community development, TNI reinforces national unity across the diverse archipelago, bridging ethnic, religious, and geographical divides.
• Improved Public Trust: Sustained commitment to serving the people, particularly in humanitarian roles, will further solidify public trust and confidence in TNI, which is crucial for maintaining social order and stability.
• Catalyst for Regional Development: Through civic missions and infrastructure projects in remote areas, TNI can act as a catalyst for regional development, bringing services and opportunities to underserved communities.

Regionally and Globally:

• Reinforced Sovereignty: A strong, people-backed TNI projects an image of national resolve, bolstering Indonesia’s sovereignty and strategic position in the Southeast Asian region. This is particularly relevant in navigating complex geopolitical dynamics and protecting maritime interests.
• Active Role in Humanitarian Diplomacy: Indonesia’s commitment to using its military for humanitarian aid and disaster relief enhances its soft power and contributes positively to regional stability and cooperation, aligning with its "free and active" foreign policy. TNI’s participation in international peacekeeping missions and disaster response exercises further solidifies this role.
• Adaptation to Evolving Threats: The emphasis on adaptability and initiative from commanders on the ground prepares TNI for a wide spectrum of modern threats, including hybrid warfare, cyberattacks, and the pervasive impacts of climate change, all of which demand integrated civilian-military responses and community engagement.

In conclusion, President Prabowo Subianto’s address at the 81st TNI Anniversary was a powerful articulation of a core principle that has guided the Indonesian National Armed Forces since its inception: its unbreakable bond with the people. By reaffirming TNI as the "people’s army," "national army," and "warrior army," Prabowo underscored a vision where military strength is not merely about armaments but about an unyielding commitment to service, sacrifice, and solidarity with the citizens. This philosophy, deeply embedded in TNI’s history and passionately reiterated by the President, ensures that the armed forces remain a vital pillar for a sovereign, just, and prosperous Indonesia, ever present in the lives of its people, both in times of peace and profound crisis.

(dis/ugo)