By Mohd Iswandi Kasan Anuar
JAKARTA, Jan 9 (Bernama) -- Indonesia is relying on its “Duta Damai” programme, run by the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT), to empower young people as agents of change in promoting a culture of peace and tolerance within their communities nationwide.
Launched in 2016, the initiative has expanded to cover 19 provinces, with the addition of the “Duta Damai Santri” programme in East Java and Central Java.
Santri refers to a student who lives in an Islamic boarding school.
Speaking during a meeting with the Ministry of Defence on Wednesday, BNPT head Police Commissioner General Eddy Hartono, said: “The programme is a preventive initiative aimed at reaching and empowering young people up to the high school level.”
He further emphasised that participants in the programme are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to take on leadership roles in the fight against radicalism at the grassroots level.
Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin expressed his appreciation for the programme, recognising its crucial role in addressing contemporary challenges, including safeguarding the nation's sovereignty.
“We welcome this programme, as cadre training is crucial, given the immense potential of the younger generation, especially when paired with a spirit of nationalism and patriotism,” he added.
In a separate statement, BNPT announced a strategic partnership with the national carrier, Garuda Indonesia, to enhance efforts in preventing and countering terrorism, particularly within the aviation sector.
During the signing of the cooperation agreement on Wednesday, he pointed out that the agreement is highly strategic, both in terms of data exchange and other important matters.
BNPT recently reported that Indonesia successfully navigated 2024 without any open terrorist attacks, marking two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024, of “Zero terrorist Attacks".
As a result, Indonesia’s ranking in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) improved, dropping from 24th in 2022-2023 to 31st last year.
The country is now classified under the “Low Impacted by Terrorism” category, having moved from the previous “Medium Impact” category.
-- BERNAMA
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