TEMPO Interactive, Jakarta:The Defense Ministry claims that if approved the Defense Bill will curtail the role of agents in the procurement of Indonesia’s main defense system (alutsista). “One of the goals is to block agents that are costing the state,” said Defense Ministry spokesman Brig. Gen. Hartind Asrin, contacted by Tempo on Wednesday, September 19. The general asked the public not to pass immediate judgment over the bill as some have already questioned the reassigning of responsibilities related to defense industry management from the State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Ministry to the Defense Ministry. Critics say the plan will recreate business opportunities for retired Indonesian National Army (TNI) members. “Such reassignment is common. Military people are more informed about military matters,” said Hartind. Hartind admitted that some articles in the Defense Industry bill still needed to be discussed further. “It [the bill] is not final; there are other things to include in regard to the [Defense Industry] matter,” Hartind continued. The bill was prepared by the House of Representatives (DPR) and is expected to be finalized in December. SUBKHAN