Indonesian Military Admits to Physical Punishment for Disobedient Trainees

Military trainers in Indonesia are implementing physical punishments for trainees who fail to adhere to discipline during basic military training. Commander of the Battalion Training Unit, Letkol (Mar) Agus Mutaqin, explained that infractions like being late for morning roll call can result in 10 to 15 push-ups.

These physical exercises are intended to cultivate a strong sense of discipline and adherence to regulations, encouraging a more orderly lifestyle among participants. Punishments are also administered for skipping communal meals, a mandatory activity for maintaining physical health. Mutaqin emphasized that collective punishments, such as for not participating in meals, are used to prevent future recurrences.

He clarified that the physical punishments are not standardized to military personnel but are adapted to the trainees' individual physical capacities. In addition to disciplinary measures, the training unit also provides rewards for trainees who demonstrate outstanding performance, aiming to boost motivation and enthusiasm for the program. The training is reportedly proceeding safely and smoothly, with the hope that participants will gain valuable knowledge for managing the "Koperasi Desa Merah Putih" (Red and White Village Cooperative).

Furthermore, trainees with pre-existing health conditions are excluded from strenuous physical activities. Those with chronic or severe illnesses are separated at the platoon and company level. Their health records, obtained before training, guide these decisions. These individuals are then directed to classroom-based learning instead of field exercises, ensuring their well-being throughout the program.