At TNI’s 80th Anniversary, President Prabowo Calls for Exemplary, Professional Leadership
President Prabowo Subianto delivers his address as the Inspector of the Ceremony at the commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI), held at the National Monument (Monas) Compound, Jakarta, Sunday, (10/05) (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)
President Prabowo Subianto stressed the importance of leadership anchored in exemplary conduct and professionalism within the Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI). The statement was delivered in his address as the Inspector of the Ceremony at the commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the TNI, held at the National Monument (Monas) Compound, Jakarta, Sunday (10/05).
“Leadership in the TNI must be exemplary leadership, Ing Ngarso Sung Tulodo, leading from the front. There is no place for leaders who are incompetent, unprofessional, or unaware of their duties,” the President affirmed.
The Head of State further called on the TNI Commander and Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces to evaluate military leaders based on merit and performance, rather than seniority. He underlined that the spirit of meritocracy must guide leadership development within the TNI to ensure the organization remains strong and adaptive to the challenges of the times.
“Our soldiers deserve and demand the best leadership. I authorize the TNI Commander and Chiefs of Staff, in leadership selection, not to overly consider seniority. What matters most is achievement, dedication, and patriotism,” the President emphasized.
President Prabowo also highlighted the TNI’s vital role in safeguarding Indonesia’s natural resources from foreign threats and irresponsible actors. He reminded that Indonesia’s natural wealth is a strategic asset that must be protected for the welfare of the people.
“The TNI must engage in self-reflection. With all the organizations we have, the TNI must remain alert, assist law enforcement, and support both local and central governments in safeguarding our wealth and natural resources. Our wealth must be preserved, conserved, and managed to eradicate poverty from the nation,” he asserted.
In his address, the President also commended the TNI for its active role in supporting national development. He urged TNI personnel to continually learn and adapt to advances in science and modern technology, including cyber capabilities and artificial intelligence.
“Once again, persevere in your training, persevere in your learning. I instruct the TNI Commander and Chiefs of Staff to continually study developments in science and technology, review organizational structures, and if necessary, replace outdated organizations with those more suitable for the interests of the Indonesian nation,” he said.
Concluding his address, President Prabowo conveyed anniversary greetings to all TNI personnel and their families. He also expressed appreciation to the spouses and families of servicemen for their unwavering support of their spouses’ service in the field.
“Once again, happy 80th anniversary to the TNI. Best wishes in carrying out your noble mandate for the people, the nation, and the state. I also extend my gratitude to the wives of our soldiers and to their children who patiently and faithfully support their husbands and fathers, caring for their families while they serve in dangerous assignments,” President Prabowo said, ending his address with a prayer for the Almighty’s continued protection of TNI personnel and their families. (BPMI of the Presidential Secretariat) (AY/MUR)
