Erwida Maulia, Jakarta – The government has ensured the recommended special body to prevent and combat terrorism will not become a repressive body reminiscent of the New Order era.

Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Djoko Suyanto said the body, a recommendation made by the National Summit at the weekend, would not resemble groups such as the notorious Operation Command for the Restoration of Security and Order (Kopkamtib).

Established in 1965, Kopkamtib functioned as the New Order's main security organ, including supervising the activities of citizens, before being disbanded in 1988.

"I guarantee, as long as I still serve as the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, such concerns will never arise," Djoko told the press on Saturday evening after leading a meeting to discuss the results of the National Summit in the fields of politics and security, with related ministers and other heads of state institutions.

His assurance came despite the fact the body will be given more authority than the antiterror squad currently working under his office.

"Terrorism is related to a wide range of problems and efforts to combat it should involve various elements in communities, aside from those under my office," Djoko said.

"The desk, meanwhile, only has limited authorities. It doesn't cover the Religious Affairs Ministry, the National Education Ministry, the Information and Communications Ministry and other organizations. The body is expected to cover all elements in the community."

With the establishment of the new body, the public is expected to play a more active role in preventing acts of terrorism, Djoko said.

Details about the form of the body, whether it will be independent or remain under the authority of the coordinating minister's office, and several others, is yet to be deliberated by legislators at the House of Representatives.