Jakarta – Military analyst from the Institute for Security and Strategic Studies (ISESS), Khairul Fahmi, believes that President Prabowo Subianto’s decision to gather his cabinet at the Indonesian Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang, Central Java, for leadership training reflects a strategic approach to enhance the leadership qualities of his officials and strengthen teamwork.

According to Fahmi, this approach aims to ensure that the “Kabinet Merah Putih” (Red and White Cabinet) is well-prepared and effective in addressing the fast-evolving challenges ahead.

“Training in a military environment is expected to enhance the leadership qualities of officials, strengthen teamwork, and prepare them to face various challenges quickly and effectively,” Fahmi told reporters on Monday (October 21).

Fahmi also revealed that several other nations, including the United States, South Korea, Japan, and Australia, have implemented similar approaches, which do not imply militarism.

“For example, in the United States, civilian officials and even members of Congress can participate in training programs at institutions like the National Defense University and the US Army War College. These processes remain firmly rooted in a democratic framework, where civilian control over the military is maintained,” Fahmi explained.

Similarly, in South Korea, civilian officials also undergo training at military institutions, such as the Korea National Defense University, while maintaining civilian control and democratic supremacy as core principles.

Japan and Australia also adopt similar approaches, where defense academy training for civilian officials focuses on improving coordination and crisis response.

Fahmi emphasized that experiences from these countries demonstrate that training in military institutions does not necessarily lead to militarism.

“On the contrary, I believe it shows that military-based training can strengthen the government’s ability to respond to security challenges, bolster national resilience, and support more informed decision-making, all while upholding democratic values,” he added.

Through this approach, Fahmi is confident that President Prabowo aims to build a more cohesive and ready cabinet, using a firm and structured method while remaining adaptive to changing dynamics.

“This plan can ultimately strengthen Prabowo’s administration, making it more responsive and effective by integrating positive military discipline values into governance, without blurring the lines between civilian and military roles,” Fahmi concluded.

Fahmi also noted that this step reflects Prabowo’s commitment to creating a government that is better prepared and resilient in facing future challenges, while still maintaining the democratic values that underpin Indonesia’s political system. (RR)