Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the 77th Indonesian National Defense Forces Anniversary, Merdeka Palace, Jakarta October 5, 2022
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Yes, today is the 77th Anniversary of Indonesian National Defense Forces (TNI). I have reiterated that we have to be cautious and careful amidst threats and challenges arising from current global geopolitical condition. Thus, we will be prepared for the impending challenges and changes from global geopolitical. I have told them earlier that TNI must be prepared.
Journalist
How was the defense equipment (alutsista) inspection?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Many Army’s alutsista have been showcased but we are unable to showcase Air Force’s and Navy’s alutsista. These are just small parts from all alutsista we have in preparation to face threats and challenges from global geopolitical changes. These must be readied.
Journalist
What about the prosperity of TNI personnel at border, Sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I asked them if they need salary rise. No one answered my question. No complaint. If it is good enough, then it is good enough. Someone also said that it has been proper.
Journalist
Sir, there was a suggestion from Ibu Megawati in her remarks. She told you that our defense has no progress. You are recommended to discuss this with the three dimensions of TNI.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Last Monday, I called Commander of the TNI and all the Chiefs of Staff. We had conversations to be aware of the daily, weekly, and monthly changes of global geopolitical.
Journalist
Sir, I was asking about the rice price at border.
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
If it costs that much at the border, it still proper and affordable.
Journalist
What about the food price, Sir?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
I already said from time to time that the International Rice Research Institute has states that we are a self-sufficient country since 2019 with a good measurement of food security. I think this is an asset we need to improve for a better food security in current climate condition issue we fought.
After more than two years we had granted fertile land, I am afraid we are vulnerable to dry condition at the same time. We held weekly meeting to discuss food and energy matters. I ordered them to prepare. We hold this meeting once every six months, now it is held weekly.
Journalist
Regarding the replacement of Constitutional Court Judge, Sir, Judge Aswanto, have you made any decision on this?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
We all have to obey the rules, the Constitution, and the laws. That is all that matters.
Journalist
Sir, is there any chance we might get sanctions from FIFA?
President of the Republic of Indonesia (Joko Widodo)
Last Monday eveningI had a call with President of FIFA, President Gianni Infantino. We talked a lot about the incident in Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang, and we also talked about FIFA U-20, we talked a lot, but the decisions are on FIFA’s side (AS/EP)