Jakarta – Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto addressed 906 cadet officers of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) in Jakarta on Friday (12/7), emphasizing the need for them to become strong and outstanding soldiers and police officers.

He highlighted the primary goal outlined in the preamble of the 1945 Constitution, which is to protect the entire Indonesian nation and all of Indonesia’s territories.

“The first goal is protection, then advancing welfare. So, economics, prosperity come second; first is protection, then education, then implementing world order,” said Prabowo.

According to Prabowo, development would be meaningless if the nation cannot protect its citizens.

“What’s the point of building skyscrapers, ports, airports, railways, highways, or dams if this nation is not intact, safe, and protected?” Prabowo questioned.

Therefore, he stressed that the TNI and Polri must be at the forefront of protecting the entire Indonesian nation.

“Your entrance into the TNI and Polri is part of the national goal. We need a very strong army, we need an incredible police force. It’s our survival as a nation,” Prabowo emphasized.

“The fate of your nation and people rests on your shoulders. You have been chosen, trained, and when the time comes, you must defend the homeland,” he continued.

Prabowo also referenced a study by Harvard University on civilizations that have lasted over 300 years, noting that three key elements are always present: a superior military, superior intelligence (police), and superior bureaucracy (civil service).

The day before, on Thursday (11/7), Vice President Ma’ruf Amin also provided guidance to the TNI-Polri cadet officers of 2024 at Balai Sudirman, urging them to be responsive and proactive in addressing public complaints.

The event was attended by the Commander of the TNI, the Chief of the National Police, the Chiefs of Staff of the military branches, and other senior officials of the TNI and Polri.