TNI Preparing for Social Unrest Caused by COVID-19

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Military (TNI) is currently preparing their ranks in anticipation of the possible social unrest due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The TNI always assumes the worst-case scenarios in preparation, especially during critical conditions such as this one,” said Chief of the National Military Information Center, General Sisriadi, in Jakarta, on Tuesday, April 28, 2020.

Although the TNI has noted a slowing down in the COVID-19 infection rate, Sisriadi stated that his institution remains doubtful that the positive cases will soon plummet in the short term. "We still have to prepare for the worst conditions that may occur," he said.

The military is setting up 109 TNI hospitals, across the Military’s army, naval and air force commands. 

“We are currently increasing our health capacity. In addition, the TNI has also proposed a budget increase for the Military and the Ministry of Defence, by asking the approval of House (DPR) members,” he said.

According to Sisradi, the worst conditions for public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic is not only a result of health problems, as economic problems also take great significance.

“When people at the grassroots experience the economic problem, that will be in relation to hunger. When the people are hungry, it can be a trigger for greater safety problems," he revealed.

In anticipation, the TNI has formed teams to deal with the worst-case scenario in public safety, which could include anarchist insurgence. 

"We are also preparing our troops to deal with the social unrest which might lean towards anarchy so that we can minimize the impacts to public security by being ready," Sisriadi added.

ANTARA | Translator: DIO SUHENDA (Intern)