In recent years, Indonesia has experienced a sharp increase in cyber threats, ranging from data breaches targeting public and government institutions to ransomware attacks. These incidents have highlighted significant weaknesses in the nation’s cyber defenses, raising serious concerns about the effectiveness of current cybersecurity measures.
In response, Bambang Soesatyo, Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), has called for the creation of a fourth branch of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) focused on cybersecurity—the Cyber Force. Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, has voiced his support for the proposal, which was put forth by Soesatyo on August 16, 2024.
This proposal comes at a critical time, as the need to protect national security in an increasingly digital world becomes more urgent. Cyberattacks have the potential to disrupt government functions, the economy, critical services, and even public confidence in state institutions. The government’s current cybersecurity framework, including the National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN), has faced criticism for lacking the strength and resources necessary to effectively combat evolving threats.
Proponents of the Cyber Force argue that placing cybersecurity under the TNI would allow Indonesia to leverage the military’s structure, discipline, and resources to defend against state and non-state actors alike. Despite the clear need to bolster Indonesia’s cybersecurity, the idea of militarizing the nation’s cyber defenses raises important questions about potential risks and challenges that must be carefully considered.
Adding to these concerns is the growing threat of cyberattacks originating from China. As tensions rise in the South China Sea and Indonesia strengthens its geopolitical position, the potential for state-sponsored cyber aggression increases. Chinese cyberattacks targeting Indonesia’s critical infrastructure and government institutions have become a mounting threat.
These attacks are not just aimed at disruption but at gathering sensitive information, destabilizing the economy, and undermining national security.
Indonesia must be prepared to defend itself against such sophisticated and persistent cyber threats. The establishment of a Cyber Force could play a pivotal role in fortifying the nation’s defenses, ensuring that Indonesia is not only able to respond to these threats but also prevent future attacks that could compromise its sovereignty and stability in an increasingly hostile digital landscape.
