Prabowo: No Place for Incompetent Leaders in Indonesia’s Armed Forces
Key Takeaways
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JAKARTA, Investortrust.id — President Prabowo Subianto warns that there is no place for leaders who lack competence and professionalism as Indonesia celebrates the 80th anniversary of its Armed Forces at the National Monument field in Jakarta on Sunday, Oct 5, 2025.
In his address as inspector of the parade, the President urges all levels of military leadership to serve as role models for their soldiers.
“On behalf of the nation, the state, and the people, I remind all TNI leaders at every echelon and rank to continually improve themselves and lead by example,” Prabowo says.
He emphasizes that leadership in the Armed Forces must be grounded in exemplary conduct. Quoting national education pioneer Ki Hadjar Dewantara, Prabowo reiterates that true leaders must stand at the forefront to set examples for their subordinates.
“Leadership in the TNI must be leadership by example — ing ngarso sung tulodo — setting the example in front,” he declares.
The President stresses that only professional and competent officers are worthy of command. “There is no place for leaders who are not competent, not professional, or do not understand their duties,” Prabowo asserts.
He also authorizes Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces General Agus Subiyanto and the chiefs of staff to disregard seniority in leadership selection, urging them instead to prioritize merit, achievement, and patriotism.
“I give full authorization to the Commander and chiefs of staff that in leadership selection, seniority need not always be considered. What matters are performance, service, and love of country,” Prabowo says.
The President underscores that Indonesia’s military must continuously sharpen its skills and adapt to the evolving demands of national defense. “Our soldiers deserve the best leadership,” he states, while praising the TNI for its historic dedication to protecting the nation in times of crisis.
“TNI must always be ready to protect the entire Indonesian nation and all its homeland. The military must be prepared to sacrifice everything for the safety of the people,” Prabowo says.
He adds that the Armed Forces, born from the people, remain the final fortress of the Republic. “TNI is the son of the Indonesian people. It rises and falls with them and always serves for their sake,” the President remarks.
Puan Highlights Cybersecurity and Technological Readiness
Speaker of the House of Representatives Puan Maharani calls on the Armed Forces to strengthen their technological capabilities and cyber defense to face new global threats.
“The role of TNI is not only as a military power but also as the frontline guardian of national stability, which is essential for development and public welfare,” Puan says in a written statement on Sunday.
She notes that the modernization of the Armed Forces must go hand in hand with the development of human resources and the acquisition of advanced weapon systems suited to Indonesia’s defense needs.
“TNI must be equipped to face all threats to sovereignty, including cyberattacks. Therefore, we must ensure a modern military posture through the right technology and defense systems,” she explains.
Puan stresses that strengthening the military’s technology must be accompanied by a well-trained, tech-savvy force. “We need personnel who are agile and capable in operating modern defense technologies,” she says.
She also reaffirms parliament’s support for the government’s ongoing modernization of the Armed Forces in a transparent and accountable manner. “Every defense policy must contribute directly to public safety and national welfare,” she concludes.