Indonesia’s Military Reforms: The Impact on Lives and Security Concerns

Indonesia’s Revised TNI Law Sparks Authoritarianism Fears, Echoing ‘New Order’ Era

the swift passage of amendments to Indonesia’s National Armed Forces (TNI) Law has ignited a firestorm of controversy, raising concerns about the military’s role in civilian affairs and harkening back to the authoritarian regime of former President Suharto.

Jakarta, Indonesia—On March 20, the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) officially approved amendments to Law No. 34 of 2004 concerning the indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). This decision, made despite notable public outcry, has fueled anxieties about a potential resurgence of military involvement in civilian life, reminiscent of the “New Order” era (1966-1998) under President Suharto, according to reports from the Jakarta globe.

Reviving an Old Proposal

Discussions to amend the TNI Law have been ongoing as the 2019-2024 parliamentary term, as reported by kompas. During that period, Commission I of the DPR proposed several changes, including allowing active-duty military personnel to hold positions in civilian institutions. However, these discussions frequently stalled due to concerns that the revisions could lead to a revival of the military’s dual-function role, a hallmark of the “New Order” era.

The ‘dual function’ or ‘dwifungsi’ doctrine, allowed the military to play a significant role in both security and socio-political affairs.The U.S. equivalent would be like active duty military personnel together holding positions of power in congress or heading federal agencies like the department of Homeland Security. This blurring of lines between military and civilian authority is precisely what critics fear is being resurrected.

Another contentious proposal aimed to lift the ban on TNI members engaging in business. Critics argued that such a move could compromise the professionalism of Indonesia’s defense institution. A similar situation in the U.S.would be comparable to allowing active-duty military officers to own private defense contracting firms. Due to these concerns, the 2019-2024 DPR failed to finalize the law revisions before their term ended, leaving the matter to the new 2024-2029 parliament.

Swift Deliberation and Public Criticism

At the start of 2025, the revised TNI Law was included in the Priority national Legislative Program (Prolegnas). DPR Deputy Speaker Adies Kadir confirmed that the President had sent a letter appointing government representatives to discuss the amendments during a plenary session on February 18.

By March 2025, Commission I of the DPR held public hearings to gather input from various stakeholders, including the Indonesian Veterans Association (PP ABRI) on March 10. Discussions continued in a joint meeting with the government on March 13, attended by Minister of Defence Sjafrie Sjafruddin, who aimed to complete the revision before parliament went into recess.

The following day, TNI Commander Agus Subiyanto and Chiefs of Staff of the Army, Navy, and Air Force presented their views to Commission I. Agus emphasized that despite the regulatory changes, the principle of civilian supremacy remained fundamental to Indonesia’s democracy.

Deliberations continued despite widespread criticism. The DPR and government even held closed-door meetings in Jakarta’s Fairmont Hotel for two days, prompting the Civil Society Coalition for Security Sector Reform to call for a halt to the discussions. Their demands were ignored.

DPR Approval and Public Reaction

The ratification sparked widespread anxiety across Indonesia and revived memories of the authoritarian “New Order” era, especially on social media. While specific quotes from officials and critics were not provided, the general sentiment reflects a deep concern over democratic backsliding.

The fear is understandable, as the “New Order” era was characterized by a strong military presence in all aspects of Indonesian society. This included not only security roles but also significant influence in political and economic affairs.The amendments to the TNI Law raise the specter of a return to this system, undermining democratic reforms achieved since Suharto’s downfall in 1998.

For Americans, this situation might be compared to anxieties surrounding potential overreach by the U.S. military. While the U.S. has strong traditions of civilian control, debates constantly arise regarding the military’s role in domestic law enforcement, surveillance, and even political discourse. Any hint of militarization of civilian life raises concerns about civil liberties and democratic governance.

The concerns surrounding the TNI Law are multifaceted:

• Erosion of Civilian Oversight: One of the main concerns is the potential for diminished civilian control over the military.
• business Interests: the amendment allowing TNI members to engage in business raises fears of corruption and conflicts of interest.
• Democratic Backsliding: the revisions are viewed by manny as a step backward for Indonesian democracy, possibly reversing decades of progress.

Potential Counterarguments and Future Implications

Proponents of the TNI Law amendments may argue that they are necessary to address modern security challenges, such as terrorism and cyber warfare, and that allowing military personnel to hold certain civilian positions can enhance national security. They might also claim that safeguards are in place to prevent abuses of power and maintain civilian supremacy.

Addressing these counterarguments requires a rigorous examination of the specific provisions of the amended law, and also careful monitoring of its implementation. Civil society organizations, academics, and the media must play a crucial role in holding the government and military accountable and ensuring that democratic principles are upheld.

Moving forward,it is indeed essential for the Indonesian government to engage in open dialog with the public and address the concerns raised by critics of the TNI Law.Openness and accountability are essential for maintaining public trust and preventing a return to the authoritarian practices of the past.

What are teh primary concerns regarding the amendments too Indonesia’s TNI Law, and how do these concerns relate to the “dual function” doctrine?

Archyde News Interview: Dr. Aminah Rahman on Indonesia’s Controversial TNI Law Amendments

Interview with Dr. Aminah Rahman, Political Analyst specializing in Indonesian Military Affairs

Archyde: Dr. Rahman, thank you for joining us today. The recent amendments to Indonesia’s TNI law have sparked important controversy. Can you give us a brief overview of the key changes and the core concerns they raise?

Dr. Rahman: Thank you for having me. The amendments primarily focus on two key areas. Firstly, they open the door for active-duty military personnel to hold positions in civilian institutions. Secondly, they lift the ban on TNI members engaging in business. The basic concern is a potential resurgence of the “dual function” doctrine, reminiscent of the Suharto era, where the military had significant influence in both security and socio-political spheres. This raises very serious questions about civilian oversight and the integrity of democratic institutions.

The “Dual Function” Doctrine and its Implications

Archyde: Can you elaborate on the “dual function” doctrine and why it’s so feared? In essence, what tangible effects on daily life could this change have?

Dr.Rahman: The “dual function” doctrine, or *dwifungsi*, essentially blurred the lines between military and civilian authority. During the New Order, this meant the military had significant depiction in parliament, government ministries, and even state-owned enterprises. Practically, this could translate to the military influencing policy, businesses, and even local governance. It also presents risks of corruption, cronyism, and the suppression of dissent, as the military is less accountable to civilian scrutiny.

Concerns about Business Engagements and Democratic Backsliding

Archyde: The amendment regarding military involvement in business is particularly contentious.What specific risks do these business ventures pose?

Dr. Rahman: Allowing active military personnel to engage in business creates several risks.Firstly, it can lead to conflicts of interest. Secondly, it can undermine the professionalism of the TNI by creating a focus on profit rather than national defense. Thirdly, it opens the door to corruption, as it can be difficult to ensure transparency and fair play in military-owned or operated businesses, which can damage the reputation of the TNI. Some also fear this is another step towards democratic backsliding, a regression towards authoritarian-style governance.

Assessing Counterarguments and Future Outlook

Archyde: Proponents might argue these changes are necessary for modern security threats. How valid are these counterarguments, and what steps can be taken to mitigate the risks you’ve outlined?

Dr.Rahman: While acknowledging that modern security threats are complex, the suggested justifications do not necessarily warrant these specific ammendments. We must distinguish between appropriate involvement in counter-terrorism, and these expansions of their power. To mitigate the risks, strict oversight is crucial. This includes robust parliamentary scrutiny, independent audits of military activities, and enabling civil society and the media to hold the government and military accountable. Open dialog with the public is critical to maintain trust and prevent a return to the authoritarian practices of the past.

Final thoughts

Archyde: Dr. Rahman, thank you. considering the amendment’s potential impact and the public anxiety, what do you see as the most crucial next step for Indonesia’s government and civil society?

Dr.Rahman: The most crucial next step is to ensure that the implementation of this law adheres to the principles of civilian supremacy and democratic governance. Civil society must remain vigilant, advocate for transparency, and ensure that the government addresses the public’s very real and valid concerns.the government should also consider amending the law to put a stop to the fears of many Indonesians. What are your thoughts on the matter? Share with us in the comments section.