In a major restructuring of Indonesia’s national defense architecture, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have officially upgraded five Military Resort Commands (Korem) into full-fledged Regional Military Commands (Kodam). The move is seen as part of a broader strategic initiative to enhance Indonesia’s territorial defense capabilities and accelerate infrastructure and development programs in key regions, particularly in Papua.
Among the newly announced commands, the spotlight has been placed on the soon-to-be-established Kodam XXIII/Mandala Trikora, which will be headquartered in Merauke, South Papua. The revival of the “Mandala Trikora” name carries deep historical significance and underscores Jakarta’s renewed commitment to securing Papua and integrating it more fully into national development.
Decentralizing Command for a More Responsive Military
The upgrade of five Korem units into Kodams is not merely an administrative reshuffle—it reflects a tectonic shift in Indonesia’s military doctrine toward a more decentralized and regionally responsive force. With over 17,000 islands and a population dispersed across a vast and complex geography, the Indonesian archipelago poses unique challenges to national defense and governance.
The new Kodams, are expected to enhance command control, logistical coordination, and cooperation with civil authorities at the provincial and municipal levels.
“This transformation is about agility and presence,” said TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto during a national press conference. “We are moving toward a military posture that is not only defensive but also proactive in supporting state functions and community needs.”
Kodam XXIII/Mandala Trikora: Restoring a Historical Legacy in Papua
The establishment of Kodam XXIII/Mandala Trikora marks the resurrection of a name that is deeply embedded in Indonesia’s military and political history. The original “Mandala” Command was created in the early 1960s as part of Operasi Trikora—a large-scale military and diplomatic operation aimed at integrating then-Dutch New Guinea (now Papua) into Indonesia.
In choosing this name for the newest Kodam, the TNI signals both continuity and renewed focus. The Kodam will cover the territory of South Papua, a province established during the 2022 regional restructuring aimed at improving local governance and public service delivery in Papua.
Headquartered in Merauke, the Kodam will replace the current Korem 174/ATW (Anim Ti Waninggap) as the highest military authority in the area. It will oversee battalions and operational units deployed across the province, many of which have long functioned not only in security roles but also in community outreach and humanitarian operations.
“The Kodam’s establishment is not just a military imperative; it’s also a strategic development platform,” said Brigadier General J. Lumbantoruan, the officer overseeing the transition. “We envision a command that protects the people while also actively contributing to health programs, education initiatives, disaster response, and economic empowerment.”
Strategic Significance of South Papua
South Papua’s elevation to a separate province in 2022 was a major step in decentralizing governance in the region. With a vast but sparsely populated territory, Merauke plays a critical role in Indonesia’s border security strategy, sharing a long land frontier with Papua New Guinea (PNG). It also serves as an agricultural hub and is central to the government’s food estate program.
However, the region also faces serious challenges, including infrastructure deficits, limited access to healthcare and education, periodic social unrest linked to political tensions and separatist movements, and the logistical difficulties of reaching remote, isolated villages.
By basing Kodam XXIII in Merauke, the TNI aims to ensure a more consistent and effective presence in the region. Military units stationed under the new Kodam will be equipped not only for combat and defense operations but also for civic missions, including logistical support for election security, medical outreach, and emergency relief.
Security and Stability in Papua
Security remains a critical issue in Papua. Despite the Indonesian government’s investment in development programs and infrastructure, separatist activities by the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB)—the armed wing of the Free Papua Movement (OPM)—have continued in various districts, especially in the highlands.
The creation of Kodam Mandala Trikora is also seen as part of a broader counterinsurgency strategy. TNI and police operations in Papua have previously faced criticism from international observers and human rights groups. Jakarta has responded by emphasizing a dual-track policy: a firm security presence, accompanied by “soft power” measures such as education programs, cultural engagement, and social services.
“Security and development must go hand-in-hand,” said South Papua Governor Apolo Safanpo. “The Kodam will help ensure peace and order while also being an engine for government support in areas like transportation, food logistics, and access to clean water.”
Civil-Military Synergy: New Era for TNI’s Territorial Function
One of the enduring doctrines of the TNI is its “Sistem Pertahanan Semesta” (Total Defense System), which integrates civilian and military components in national defense. The Kodam, as a territorial command, plays a central role in this model.
TNI units in Papua are routinely engaged in non-combat tasks such as building and maintaining roads and bridges, running literacy programs in indigenous communities, supporting local agricultural cooperatives, and providing free healthcare through mobile clinics.
Kodam Mandala Trikora is expected to scale up these efforts and coordinate more closely with local government agencies. This includes joint programs in remote districts such as Boven Digoel, Asmat, and Mappi, where infrastructure development and public services remain limited.
Civil society organizations have called for transparent mechanisms to ensure that the increased military presence aligns with democratic principles and respects indigenous rights. In response, the TNI has pledged to uphold human rights and prioritize community engagement.
Implications for Regional Defense and Diplomacy
Beyond Papua, the formation of five new Kodams signals a recalibration of Indonesia’s military posture across the archipelago. As Indonesia increases its maritime patrols, expands its air force capabilities, and builds new defense infrastructure in border areas, the Kodams serve as regional command hubs capable of integrating land, sea, and air operations.
In volatile areas like North Sulawesi, Maluku, and Sulawesi, where communal conflicts and external threats such as transnational crime remain concerns, the new Kodams will offer a more agile and localized response mechanism.
Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto praised the TNI’s transformation and described the upgrades as “an evolution of the Indonesian defense system to match 21st-century challenges.” He added, “We must anticipate a range of modern threats—cyber, biological, territorial, and ideological. A strong territorial command system allows us to stay ahead.”
Public Reception and Outlook
The announcement has been welcomed by most provincial governments and local leaders. However, some human rights groups and Papuan civil society advocates have expressed concern over the potential for increased militarization.
“We urge the TNI and the central government to ensure that the establishment of new Kodams, especially in Papua, does not lead to expanded operations that marginalize indigenous voices,” said Veronica Koman, a Papuan human rights activist. “Security must not override dignity and autonomy.”
In response, military officials have reiterated that the new Kodams will adhere to national law and operate under strict oversight. “We are here to serve, not to dominate,” said General Agus Subiyanto. “This is a modern Kodam for a modern Papua.”
Conclusion
The establishment of Kodam XXIII/Mandala Trikora in South Papua and four other new Kodams across the Indonesian archipelago represents a fundamental evolution in the country’s military strategy. No longer focused solely on defense, the regional Kodams are now positioned as active agents of development, governance support, and civil protection.
For Papua, the success of Kodam Mandala Trikora will be measured not just in security terms but in its ability to build trust, promote economic inclusion, and bridge the historical gap between Jakarta and Papua’s indigenous populations.
As Indonesia looks to the future—with ambitions for regional leadership, digital transformation, and equitable growth—the integration of territorial defense and inclusive development may become the cornerstone of a more stable and united republic.
