The Indonesian government is actively pursuing several key negotiations and initiatives aimed at addressing security concerns and economic stability. One significant development involves the repatriation of Indonesian citizens associated with foreign terrorist fighters (FTF) and the push for buffalo meat imports to stabilize local prices, alongside renewable energy collaborations with Kenya.
According to BERITAJA, the National Counterterrorism Agency (Badan Nasional Penanggulangan Terorisme, BNPT) is currently working with 14 Indonesian nationals deported from Turkey. These individuals were found near the Syrian border, reportedly attempting to join terrorist groups. Commissioner General Polisi Eddy Hartono of BNPT stated, "This is one form of the Indonesian Government's counterpart engagement with Turkey to repatriate citizens trying to associate with Syria."
The repatriated citizens are being housed at a specialized detention center in Sentul, Bogor, where their health status and backgrounds, particularly concerning education and mental health, are being assessed. Eddy elaborated on the rehabilitation efforts, saying, "We involve regional governments for their training. For example, if they are from Central Java, we coordinate with the Central Java local government for rehabilitation efforts." This integration is part of broader deradicalization efforts by the government, emphasizing not only security but social reintegration.
Meanwhile, discussions are also underway concerning the import of buffalo meat from India, led by PT Rajawali Nusantara Indonesia (Persero), commonly known as ID FOOD. The company's Director, Sis Apik Wijayanto, emphasized the importance of procuring buffalo meat to maintain local prices below the highest retail price (HET) of IDR 80,000 per kilogram. He stated, "We will gradually import buffalo meat from India and cooperate with the Ministry of Agriculture to facilitate this intergovernmental discussion."
This initiative is particularly pressing as the Indonesian market prepares for the upcoming fasting month of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, where demand for meat typically surges. Currently, the buffalo meat supply is estimated at 9,000 to 10,000 tons, yet ID FOOD aims to meet the target of distributing 19,000 tons during the festive season. The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has highlighted concerns about rising prices due to suppliers from India increasing rates amid fluctuated currency exchange rates, impacting the overall cost of imports.
Finally, discussions on renewable energy are being explored as Pertamina New and Renewable Energy (NRE) examines collaboration with Kenya on new geothermal power plant projects. The company’s Finance Director, Nelwin Aldriansyah, mentioned the intent to form joint ventures with Kenyan companies, including the Electricity Generatings Company PLC (KenGen) and the Geothermal Development Company (GDC). He mentioned, "Kenya has developed geothermal energy capacity around 1,200 megawatts, but they wish to increase this capacity with our potential expertise."
The collaborative effort aims to bring Indonesia's geological expertise to assist Kenya as it looks to expand its energy capabilities. Pertamina sees this partnership as part of its broader goal to boost renewable energy development both domestically and internationally.
These initiatives highlight the Indonesian government's comprehensive approach to national and economic security. By addressing issues related to security, food stability, and renewable energy, the government is poised to make meaningful progress across various sectors of society.