Singapore and Indonesia officially launched the Indonesia-Singapore (INDOSIN) Defence Alumni initiative on Tuesday, July 14, in Jakarta. The program, known as Persahabatan Alumni Pertahanan (PERSAHAN), aims to formalize and maintain professional and personal ties between generations of military officers from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and the Indonesian National Defence Forces (TNI).
Establishing the PERSAHAN Initiative
Singapore Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing and his Indonesian counterpart, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, presided over the launch in Jakarta. During the event, the two ministers signed the initiating directive and unveiled the official logo for the program. According to Singapore’s Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), the initiative serves to connect officers who have participated in training programs and courses hosted by either nation.
The name PERSAHAN is derived from Indonesian terms meaning “friendship” and “defence alumni.” By creating a structured network, the initiative seeks to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries, extending these connections beyond the active service years of the participating officers.
Did You Know?
The name PERSAHAN is a portmanteau of the Indonesian words for “friendship” and “defence alumni,” underscoring the collaborative nature of the new bilateral network.
Leadership and Membership Structure
The strategic direction of the alumni group will be managed by the chiefs of the defence forces of Singapore and Indonesia, who serve as co-presidents. MINDEF noted that these co-presidents hold the authority to invite additional officers from the SAF and TNI who have made significant contributions to bilateral relations.
Membership is designed to be inclusive of both current and former defence attachés who have served in either Singapore or Indonesia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the INDOSIN Defence Alumni?
The initiative aims to bring together generations of SAF and TNI officers to maintain personal and professional ties beyond their active service, strengthening bilateral relations.
Who leads the alumni initiative?
The chiefs of the defence forces of Singapore and Indonesia serve as co-presidents to guide the plans and activities of the group.
Who is eligible for membership?
Membership includes officers who have participated in each other’s courses and training, as well as current and former defence attachés. The co-presidents may also invite other officers who have contributed significantly to bilateral relations.
How might the formalization of these personal networks influence future military cooperation between the two nations?
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