Jakarta (ANTARA) - Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia voiced support for the involvement of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) in securing facilities and installations of national strategic importance, including oil refineries.
“In my view, it is essential that all state institutions work hand in hand to safeguard assets of critical significance to national interests,” he told reporters after meeting President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday (November 26).
His remarks came in response to the government’s plan to assign TNI soldiers to guard oil refineries operated by state-owned oil and gas company Pertamina. He noted that the initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen protection of strategic assets.
The minister emphasized that the government considers the involvement of both the military and police in energy and mineral projects crucial to preventing disruptions and ensuring smooth operations for public benefit.
“It is important to mobilize security personnel, including soldiers and police officers, to prevent sabotage,” Lahadalia said.
Earlier, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin underscored the government’s intention to collaborate with the TNI to maintain order and security around industries deemed strategic. He explained that the cooperation is aimed at protecting projects and facilities tied to Indonesia’s sovereignty.
Speaking to the media after a meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR) in Jakarta on Monday (November 24), Sjafrie said TNI soldiers would be deployed to guard Pertamina facilities, including refineries and terminals.
He further noted that securing strategic installations falls under the military’s mandate as outlined in the TNI Law.
“Duties related to securing strategic installations, particularly those belonging to Pertamina, are part of non-war military operations as stipulated in Article 14 of the revised TNI Law,” Sjafrie said.
He added that the plan involves mobilizing TNI’s territorial development battalions to carry out the assignment. The TNI currently operates more than 100 such battalions nationwide, with the number projected to increase by about 150 annually.
Sjafrie expressed confidence that with TNI’s support, Pertamina will be able to enhance its performance and deliver greater contributions to the public and the state.
