Indonesians Proud Of TNI's Successful Reforms

Surabaya, E Java, Oct 7 (Antara) - The people admire the Indonesian Military (TNI) and are proud of its success in carrying out internal reforms during the reformation era, stated President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. "We have accomplished the TNI`s reforms," he noted in his speech at the commemoration of the 69th anniversary of TNI in the East Java city of Surabaya on Tuesday. The TNI has made significant progress, including strengthening its position, increasing its size, inducting modern weaponry, and improving its professional capabilities, remarked the head of state. As a result of its internal reforms, the TNI has regained its dignity and functions as the guardian of the country`s sovereignty and national integrity, he emphasized. "All these achievements must be maintained," President Yudhoyono stated, adding that attending the commemoration ceremony of TNI`s anniversary in Surabaya was special to him before ending his presidential term on October 20, 2014. President Yudhoyono emphasized that the TNI personnel were expected to maintain their professionalism, foster togetherness and unity with the people and always be prepared to be deployed anywhere for upholding the nation`s respect and dignity. The head of state extended his gratitude to all the soldiers for securing Indonesia`s border areas and outer islands and taking part in the UN peacekeeping missions. "As the supreme commander, I seek your apology if my policies have not yet been able to satisfy all the soldiers," he affirmed. On Monday, President Yudhoyono had also called on the TNI to continue giving its best for the country, stating that it had always cared for the country`s welfare. "Keep up your spirits and resolve to fight and serve the unitary state of Indonesia," Yudhoyono remarked during a meeting attended by 23.6 thousand TNI members at the Eastern Fleet Command headquarters in Surabaya. An exhibition showcasing TNI`s weaponry, which included more than 200 aircraft and several sophisticated warships, was organized to commemorate TNI`s 69th anniversary. The TNI`s 69th anniversary officially falls on October 5, but the celebrations were postponed to October 7 due to the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha, which fell on the same day this year.