Bireuen – detikperistiwa.co.id
The National Chairman of Relawan Peduli Rakyat Lintas Batas, Arizal Mahdi, has delivered a strong critique of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) over its recent stance regarding West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi’s policy to send troubled students for character-building through military training.
“Komnas HAM appears increasingly involved in matters that pertain to youth character development. When a regional leader implements a policy to guide troubled students using disciplined military-style education, Komnas HAM casts unwarranted doubt. It is time for the institution to be seriously evaluated,” stated Arizal Mahdi in Bireuen, Saturday (4 May 2025).
Arizal emphasised that the military approach should not be viewed negatively, especially when its purpose is the formation of character and discipline.
“We must not hold prejudices against the military in its efforts to educate young people. The values of discipline, responsibility, and patriotism fostered through military training are urgently needed by today’s generation,” he remarked.
He clarified that such training is not a form of punishment, but a constructive method of character formation, proven to instil positive mental attributes in youth.
“Rather than letting them fall into juvenile delinquency or drug abuse, it is far better to guide them through training that encourages personal discipline. Komnas HAM should be supporting such initiatives, not suppressing them,” he continued.
Arizal also drew attention to what he sees as Komnas HAM’s rigid legalistic stance.
“If Komnas HAM can no longer align with the evolving social needs and the urgency of building strong youth character, the public is right to question its relevance going forward,” Arizal concluded.
This response comes following a statement made by Komnas HAM Chairperson Atnike Nova Sigiro, who previously claimed that military-based education for troubled students was misguided and outside the military’s jurisdiction.
“We hope that every institution in the nation, including government bodies, can work together in shaping the next generation’s character for the betterment of Indonesia,” Arizal Mahdi concluded.
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