Indonesia

Indonesia Expands Military's Role in Civilian Government

MAR 20 2025·Updated MAR 21 2025

Story

Above: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto greets guests during the launch of a sovereign wealth fund known as Daya Anagata Nusantarain Jakarta on Feb. 24, 2025. Image credit: Bay Ismoyo/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images

The Facts

Indonesia's parliament on Thursday unanimously passed revisions to the "TNI" (military) law, allowing active military personnel to hold positions in 15 civilian institutions — up from a previous total of 10.
The Diplomat
The Jakartapost
Under the new law, military personnel can now serve in additional institutions, including the National Counterterrorism Agency, the Maritime Security Agency, and the National Border Management Agency.
The Diplomat
Jakarta Globe
The amendments, backed by Pres. Prabowo Subianto's coalition, also extend the retirement ages of military personnel. Four-star generals can serve until they are 63, with possible extensions to 65.
The Straits Times
BBC News
In a speech, Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said the changes were necessary to address geopolitical changes and transform the military "to face conventional and non-conventional conflicts."
The Associated Press
Al Jazeera
The law's passage sparked protests from democracy activists and some students who have camped outside parliament since Wednesday evening.
Nikkei Asia
BBC News
Al Jazeera
The revision process was expedited. The bill was approved less than two months after the president's formal request.
guardian
The Jakartapost

Sources Split

LEFT

CENTER

RIGHT

ESTAB
CRIT

CENTER

PRO
ESTAB

The Spin

Narrative A

These revisions align with the modern security challenges that Indonesia faces. They are essential adaptations to modern defense challenges and evolving threats, with clear oversight mechanisms in place to prevent abuse of power. The changes maintain civilian supremacy while enabling the armed forces to better protect Jakarta's national and international interests.

The Associated Press

Jakarta Globe

Narrative B

The essence of democracy is that the military should not engage in politics. These amendments represent a dangerous regression toward military authoritarianism, threatening Indonesia's democratic foundations by blurring civilian-military boundaries. The rushed implementation and expanded military presence in civilian institutions signal a disturbing return to possible military dictatorship.

BBC News

The Diplomat