Indonesian Village Manager Candidates Undergo Military-Style Training

Wiliam Tingting, a candidate for the Kopdes Merah Putih (Red and White Village Cooperative) manager position, is currently immersed in a week-long, semi-military training program at the 1st Marine Infantry Brigade in Cilandak, South Jakarta. Having transitioned from a private sector job, Tingting is adapting to an unusual and rigorous routine that began on June 14, 2026.

His days now start exceptionally early, around 3:30 AM WIB, beginning with cleaning and preparation for morning exercises that last until approximately 5:30 AM. Following the physical training, the schedule includes further cleaning, breakfast, morning roll call, and marching drills before commencing basic military education classes at 8:30 AM. These classes cover subjects such as fieldcraft and map reading, with activities typically concluding by 10:00 PM.

During a visit on June 25, Tempo observed participants in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) program engaged in fieldcraft and map reading lessons within a large, lecture-hall-style classroom. Dressed in military-style camouflage uniforms, they sat at desks as a Marine major delivered instruction loudly, without amplification. The learning environment was characterized by strict military discipline, with instructors using firm tones and expecting respectful responses from participants.

In total, 670 prospective managers are undergoing this training, divided into four companies, each with approximately 196 members. The program incorporates various team-building exercises, including synchronized chanting sessions like "Komando di darat, laut, udara, jaya" (Commando on land, sea, air, victory!). The training also includes communal prayer for Muslim participants and synchronized meals, reinforcing group cohesion. For Tingting, this demanding schedule represents a significant departure from his previous civilian life.