Indonesian President Joko Widodo has delivered five instructions to the Indonesian National Police (Polri) during the celebration of the 71st Anniversary of Bhayangkara.

"I have instructed the entire Indonesian National Police to improve its performance through the following efforts. Firstly, to improve the internal management of the police to suppress negative cultures such as corruption, use of excessive force, and arrogance in using its authority," he said, while presiding over the 71st anniversary ceremony of the Polri at the National Monument Square in Central Jakarta, on Monday.

He was accompanied by First Lady Iriana, Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla and his wife Mufidah, former Indonesian president Megawati Soekarnoputri, former Indonesian vice president Try Sutrisno, leaders of state high institutions, ambassadors, and police officials.

"Secondly, to strengthen the internal solidarity and professionalism of Polri to support the realization of a sovereign, independent, and personable Indonesia," he stated.

The third instruction was to optimize the modernization of Polri by using information technology in public services.

"Fourthly, to increase operational preparedness through early action and detection with proactive professional strategy so that the Polri can still act swiftly in the face of certain situations which are growing rapidly," he noted.

The fifth instruction was to enhance cooperation, coordination, and communication with all elements of government, community, and international colleagues as the implementation of proximity and political synergy in order to create a conducive situation of security and public order.

"As the head of state, I remain committed to supporting the establishment of a strong, reliable, and professional Polri, so that it could carry out its tasks optimally to maintain stability of security and public order; enforce the law; and become a protector, guard, and servant for the community," he remarked.

Widodo hoped the Polri could implement its service to the people, nation, and state.

"Happy 71st anniversary of the Indonesian National Police, please continue to be the main servant of the nation," he remarked.

In contrast to previous years, the commemoration of the Polris anniversary this year was held in National Monument area, enabling people to witness the celebration.

The Polris anniversary actually falls on July 1, but it was celebrated on July 10 as the Polri had been carrying out Ramdaniya Operation from June 19 to July 4.

A total of 2,408 joint personnel of Polri, Indonesian National Army, civil service police unit, and scout were involved in the ceremony. The series of ceremonies started with the examination of troops led by the president.

The ceremony was also enlivened with a colossal dance that reflected Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity), an attraction of paratroopers and drum band of Polri. The various attractions were carried out by a group of members of Mobile Brigade Corps, traffic police, Sabhara, as well as professional dancers.

During the ceremony, Widodo awarded Bintang Bhayangkara Narariya, third-class meritorious service star, to four elected police officers. 

Reported by Desca Lidya Natalia

Source: ANTARA