At Graha Ali Sadikin, City Hall, Deputy Governor Rano Karno led Jakarta’s provincial ceremony for the 77th National Defense Day on Friday (12/19), where he relayed President Prabowo Subianto’s official message.

According to him, the National Defense Day serves as a reminder of the 1948 founding of the Emergency Government of the Republic of Indonesia (PDRI) in Bukittinggi, a move that preserved the nation during the existential threat posed by the Second Dutch Military Aggression.

The event, he stated, is proof that the spirit of national defense has been the key to maintaining Indonesia’s existence.

"This is a pivotal moment to reaffirm our commitment to preserving national unity," he continued.

Under the theme "Strengthen National Defense for an Advanced Indonesia," he stated that today’s commemoration serves as a reminder that national progress can only be achieved if all residents possess preparedness, discipline, and resilience in facing the challenges of the times.

He further emphasized that threats to the state are no longer conventional but have evolved into cyber warfare, radical movements, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters.

He further emphasized that threats to the state are no longer conventional but have evolved into cyber warfare, radical movements, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters.

"In such a situation, the spirit of national defense must become the collective strength of all Indonesians," he asserted.

He added that Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra—regions that played extraordinary roles in the Republic’s journey—are currently being hit by natural disasters.

"Let us together strengthen our resolve for a strong, advanced Indonesia that is always capable of rising to meet every challenge," he concluded.