The House of Representatives Commission I on defense affairs has supported the government's initiative to require all Indonesian men aged 18 years and over to serve in the military.

The program is designed to prepare them for a war situation and possible attack against the country. Due to complexity of the issue, the House needs more time for discussion before bringing the subject into legislation.

"It would be a very important bill. It would provide a legal instrument for a military program involving civilians. However, we must carefully and thoroughly discuss the draft. Additionally, we must involve the public in discussions due to the complexity of the issue," lawmaker Hayono Isman from the Democratic Party said on Thursday.

Separately, Commission I deputy chairman TB Hasanuddin said his commission would only start deliberating the bill when lawmakers complete deliberations of the National Security Bill.