On March 20, 2025, the Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat Republik Indonesia (DPR RI) officially ratified the Draft Law (RUU) concerning amendments to Law Number 34 of 2004 regarding the Indonesian National Army (TNI). This significant legislative move has stirred considerable controversy, especially as it expands the authority of the TNI, raising concerns about encroachment into civilian domains.
The ratification was led by DPR Chairman Puan Maharani during a plenary session attended by 293 members of parliament. As part of the review process, the draft had previously been discussed in a work meeting with the government on March 18, 2025, during which all political party factions expressed their support for the bill's passage.
The revised TNI law introduces major changes that fundamentally reshape the roles and responsibilities of the military. One of the most notable updates includes an expansion of the number of civilian positions that active TNI personnel can occupy, increasing the previous allowance from ten to fourteen. These additional positions are now available in the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB), the National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT), the Maritime Security Agency, and the Attorney General’s Office, among others.
Suspicion regarding the TNI's role in civilian matters has intensified with these changes. The law asserts that the military's position remains under the president, particularly concerning the mobilization and deployment of forces. However, it also adds two new mandates in the realm of Military Operations Other Than War (OMSP), allowing the TNI to intervene in cyber security threats and to protect national interests abroad.
Article 53 of the amended law now extends the retirement age of military personnel. Under the new provisions, the retirement age for non-commissioned officers and privates has been raised from 53 to 55, while for officers up to the rank of colonel, it has been adjusted from 58 to 60 years. Additionally, four-star generals may remain in service until the age of 65, depending on presidential policy. These changes reflect the higher life expectancy and productivity demands in Indonesian society.
Alongside these legislative revisions, significant discourse has emerged around the implications of such authority expansions. Critics argue that these amendments could threaten civilian supremacy and democratic norms, asserting that the military should primarily focus on defense against external threats rather than internal issues.
In contrast, the government and the DPR maintain that strengthening the TNI’s role is imperative, especially in addressing non-conventional security threats such as cyber warfare and terrorism. The ratified law thus aims to enhance the effectiveness of the military in fulfilling its evolving role amidst growing security challenges.
Furthermore, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto addressed the issue of the ban on active military personnel running businesses or engaging in political activities. He acknowledged the occurrence of some soldiers moonlighting as motorcycle taxi drivers or selling beverages during duty but clarified that such activities do not qualify as ‘business’ under the existing regulations.
General Subiyanto mentioned plans by President Prabowo Subianto to establish Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (Red and White Cooperative) in villages across Indonesia, emphasizing that this initiative could provide further financial support for soldiers and facilitate economic activities within the military community.
Despite some concerns surrounding the act's provisions, the government highlighted the necessity for these developments in response to ever-evolving domestic politics and security dynamics.
Puan Maharani reiterated that restrictions preventing active TNI personnel from participating in business or political parties remain unchanged, ensuring adherence to previous laws governing military conduct. The new law does not alter these fundamental prohibitions, maintaining a clear division between military and civilian spheres while allowing for specific integrations necessary for national stability.
The passage of the RUU TNI represents a pivotal moment for Indonesia as it navigates the intersection of military authority and civilian governance. As the military takes on greater responsibilities in response to new threats, the balance between state power and civilian oversight will be closely monitored by both societal leaders and citizens alike.
In conclusion, the ratification of the amended TNI Law is a significant step that reflects Indonesia's ongoing adaptation to contemporary security challenges while also sparking a necessary debate about the role of the military in society. The implications of this legislation will undoubtedly resonate through the layers of governance and civil discourse in the nation's future.
