Malang, East Java – The Indonesian Army is to establish one Army Strategic Reserves Command (Kostrad) division in Papua. This is aimed at deterring separatist action and maintaining security in border areas.

"This is a long term program of the Indonesian Army," said Kostrad commander Lieutenant General Hadi Waluyo, following the transfer of command of Kostrad 2 infantry division in Singosari, Malang, East Java, on Wednesday (23/11).

According to Waluyo, the establishment of this division is based on Kostrad's tasks as a combat unit. The tasks include establishing operational preparedness in facing threats within the next five years.

With one division stationed in Papua, separatism threats in Papua can be detected earlier and be handled rapidly. "Stationing a Kostrad division in Papua is aimed at settling all security threats and problems," stated Waluyo.

He went on to say that the tasks of Kostrad in the future would be heavier with increasing intensity of threats against Indonesia's sovereignty and the strong influence of globalization in ideological, political, economic and social fields.

People have to be alert as regards the influence of globalization because it could destroy the spirit of national unity. In addition, people must also be alert in terms of the entry of foreign influences that might spread the values of primordiality, separatism and terrorism.

Currently, Kostrad has a huge challenge regarding state security. The challenges include border disputes, separatism in Papua, terrorism in various regions and alertness in Aceh following the peace agreement.

(Bibin Bintariadi-Tempo News Room)