Nurul Arifin Encourages The Welfare Of Soldiers To Be The Top Priority In Strengthening National Defense

JAKARTA - Member of Commission I DPR RI from the Golkar Party faction, Nurul Arifin, emphasized that improving the welfare of soldiers must be the main focus in strengthening the national defense system. This was conveyed in the Commission I Working Meeting of the DPR RI with the Ministry of Defense, the TNI Commander, and the Chiefs of Staff of the Army, Navy and Air, which was held to discuss strategic issues of national defense.

Nurul highlighted the importance of increasing the national defense budget which is currently in the range of 0.7'0.8% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). He welcomed the government's target to increase it to 1'1.5% of GDP as a concrete step in strengthening defense and prospering soldiers.

Indonesia's defense budget must reflect our commitment to a professional and modern military force. However, don't let us forget the welfare of soldiers. This increase in budget should be a solution to increasing their allowances and facilities in the field," said Nurul.

He also welcomed the plan to increase the food and side dishes budget from IDR 60,000/day to IDR 90.0000/day

"I appreciate the plan of the Minister of Defense, this is a form of concern for those who are at the forefront of national defense. We must ensure that soldiers get their welfare," he said.

In addition to the issue of welfare, Nurul also highlighted evaluating the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the defense sector and identifying the sustainability or implementation of the existing MoU.

Responding to this, the Minister of Defense explained that the signing of the MoU was reciprocal and needed a diplomatic process that could not go one-sided. He also asked for the support of Commission I of the DPR RI to encourage acceleration through diplomatic channels.

On the same occasion, the Minister of Defense also conveyed the development of the defense budget which has now reached 0.9% of GDP, with the first phase target of increasing to 1.51.6%. This budget increase will support the operation of around 120,000 soldiers and the formation of 100 new battalions as part of the development of national defense forces.

This working meeting reinforces the synergy between the legislature and the executive in realizing a strong, modern, and welfare system for soldiers.