Indonesia strengthens Natuna defense against transnational crimes

Natuna (ANTARA) - Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago called on military and police personnel stationed in the Natuna Islands to remain vigilant in safeguarding national sovereignty and combating transnational threats, including drug trafficking.

Speaking before hundreds of Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) troops and National Police (Polri) personnel in Natuna, Riau Islands Province, on Thursday, the retired four-star general described Natuna as a strategically important border region that directly faces several neighboring countries and serves as one of Indonesia's frontiers.

Given its strategic position, Djamari said all government institutions operating in Natuna, particularly the TNI and Polri, must demonstrate professionalism and serve as role models by carrying out activities that benefit local communities and strengthen the nation.

"Everything you see and do must be right. No unit should remain idle here. You are here to safeguard the nation's sovereignty," he said.

Djamari said the responsibilities of military and police personnel in border areas extend beyond maintaining sovereignty, security, and public order. They also play a crucial role in addressing a range of emerging threats, including preventing narcotics trafficking.

According to the minister, Indonesia's archipelagic border regions, including Natuna, are vulnerable to being exploited as transit routes and distribution points for illegal drugs, making close coordination among government agencies essential.

He cited the recent seizure of 3.2 metric tons of narcotics by the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) as an example of successful interagency cooperation, saying the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration among Indonesian law enforcement and security institutions.

"This region is an entry point for various threats, including narcotics. The Air Force, Navy, Army, and the police must ensure that none of their personnel become involved in activities that endanger the nation," he said.

Djamari also urged military and police personnel to continuously improve their capabilities through regular training to maintain operational readiness, physical fitness, and mental resilience.

He said the government had provided adequate training facilities and infrastructure to support personnel development and encouraged security forces to make full use of those resources.

"Never neglect training. If soldiers are not engaged in combat, they should be training. No service member can perform their duties effectively without continuous training," Djamari said.

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Translator: Nurman, Azis Kurmala

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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