"I have been ordered by the president, following his speech at the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), to create the cyber military force," Subiyanto remarked after attending a working meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR) here on Tuesday.
Currently, he noted that the TNI already has a cyber unit that is highly dependent on the capability of human resources.
His side has so far planned to establish a cyber military center at the TNI headquarters and in each military branch. High school and university graduates will be recruited to be the personnel in the cyber centers, Subiyanto revealed.
He explained that the cyber unit would be different from other units in the TNI, as more civilians would be roped in, and their recruitment would prioritize skills.
"The cyber unit is different from other units. There will be more civilians," he remarked.
However, he has yet to hold a special discussion on this matter with the DPR. On Tuesday, he only discussed the defense budget at the parliament.
On August 16, People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Speaker Bambang Soesatyo stated that it is time for Indonesia to prepare for the formation of a cyber military force immediately.
"Its presence is to strengthen the three existing branches, namely the Army, Navy, and Air Force," he remarked during the 2024 MPR Annual Session at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta.
He assessed this to be important based on Indonesia's geopolitical position that directly faces the "trident" of the United Kingdom Commonwealth countries, namely Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia.
Related news: Lemhannas Governor proposes establishment of Cyber Force
Related news: MPR proposes establishing Indonesia's cybersecurity academy
Translator: Bagus R, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
