Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia — On March 19, 2025, Budisatrio Djiwandono, a prominent member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), confirmed there will be no placement of active military personnel in state-owned enterprises (BUMN). This assurance comes amid the ongoing polemic surrounding the revision of Law Number 34 of 2004 concerning the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI).
Speaking at a press conference in Jakarta, Djiwandono shared, "Itu nanti kita bisa perlihatkan bahwa tidak ada penempatan prajurit aktif di BUMN-BUMN. Itu saya tidak mengerti itu beredar dari mana," which translates to "We can show that there will be no placement of active soldiers in state-owned enterprises. I don't understand where that rumor is coming from." This statement aims to clarify misconceptions regarding the potential involvement of military personnel in civilian sectors, following an increase in public concern about the implications of the TNI Law revisions.
Further addressing the matter, Utut Adianto, the Chairman of Commission I of the DPR, stated that the ongoing discussions regarding the TNI Law are based on correspondence from President Prabowo Subianto. On March 18, he indicated that Megawati Soekarnoputri, the chairman of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP), supports maintaining civilian supremacy and opposes any return to the military's dual function. Adianto emphasized, "Kalau Ibu tuh cuma jangan sampai dwifungsi kembali lagi, supremasinya tetap sipil. Kalau sama prajurit, berilah perhatian," or "We should ensure that the military does not return to its dual function and that civilian supremacy remains in place. Attention must be given to the soldiers."
The revision of the TNI Law is crucial, as it includes significant changes regarding the number of ministries where active TNI officers can serve. On March 11, Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin proposed that soldiers could occupy positions in 15 ministries or institutions, signaling an expanded role for the TNI in civilian governance. "Jadi ada 15, kemudian untuk jabatan-jabatan tertentu lainnya, itu kalau mau ditempatkan dia mesti pensiun," which translates to "So there are 15, and for other specific positions, if they want to be placed, they must retire," Sjafrie clarified during a parliamentary meeting.
One notable change revealed by Wakil Ketua Komisi I DPR, Dave Laksono, was the removal of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) from the list of ministries that could be filled by active military personnel. After a thorough review, Laksono confirmed, “Iya, jadi tidak ada,” which translates to “Yes, it’s gone.” Meanwhile, member Tubagus Hasanuddin discussed adjustments to Article 47 of the proposed law, indicating a shift in the structure of positions available to active soldiers.
Despite the breadth of changes suggested, concerns still linger regarding the extent of military involvement in civilian affairs. The revision process has faced criticism, particularly for perceived secrecy and lack of public engagement as it navigates potential implications for maintaining civilian governance. Supratman Andi Agtas, the Minister of Law, remarked on the growing apprehension, stating, "Soal kekhawatiran menyangkut soal dwifungsi ABRI itu terjawab, bahwa itu sama sekali tidak benar," asserting that fears of a return to the military's dual role are unfounded.
The DPR RI will continue its discussions on the TNI Law revision, emphasizing the balance between reform and civil oversight. The revisions, although viewed with suspicion by some, aim to structure a more contemporary role for the TNI within the government's framework. Representatives from various political factions are expected to contribute to ongoing debates, shaping the future of military engagement in Indonesia's governance. As this legislative process unfolds, the potential impacts on Indonesia’s democratic principles and military conduct will be closely observed.
As the situation develops, clarity surrounding the revisions may reframe public perception of military involvement in Indonesia's political sphere, further fueling debates on civilian supremacy and military professionalism. This ongoing discourse will be pivotal in ensuring the TNI adapts to the modern governance landscape while safeguarding democratic values.
