President calls for better soldiers' welfare

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has instructed the Finance Minister, Defence Minister and the Indonesian Military Chief to prepare a policy to provide welfare for the soldiers in accordance with their duties and responsibilities.

“Give incentive for soldiers posted in border areas, isolated areas and border islands. I also request for a housing program policy for the soldiers,” Yudhoyono said in a speech at the 65th anniversary of the Indonesian Military (TNI) celebration at Halim Perdana Kusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono presided over a ceremony on parade and procession to commemorate the anniversary.

Also attending the event were several former TNI high-ranking officers such as former TNI commander Gen. (Ret.) Djoko Santoso and  former Vice President Gen. (ret.) Try Sutrisno, who is also the former military commander.