Indonesia’s Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, is strongly urging regional heads across Sulawesi to consistently strengthen their synergy with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda). This concerted effort is deemed critical for maintaining robust political stability, security, and social cohesion, which serve as the fundamental bedrock for sustainable development and enhanced economic growth in the region.
The Minister conveyed this pivotal message during a joint gathering and directive session held in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, on Saturday, May 30, 2026. The high-level event also featured the Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs and the Minister of Housing and Public Works, underscoring the collaborative approach to regional governance.
“Almost all issues, whether related to security or other challenges, including programs initiated by the President, the central government, or regional administrations, can be successfully executed when there is strong solidarity and unity,” Minister Karnavian emphasized. This statement highlights his conviction that cohesive leadership is paramount for effective problem-solving and program implementation.
Karnavian further elaborated on Sulawesi’s unique and strategic position, serving as a vital bridge between Indonesia’s western and eastern regions. Coupled with its abundant natural resources, this strategic significance makes the continuous preservation of security and political stability absolutely essential for unlocking the island’s full potential.
He firmly asserted that meaningful national development cannot proceed without a safe and conducive environment. Therefore, ensuring security is not merely the prerogative of the central government but a shared and profound responsibility that extends to regional governments (Pemda) working in concert with all elements of Forkopimda.
“Security, much like health, requires constant care. It doesn’t appear suddenly, nor does it maintain itself spontaneously. We only truly appreciate the value of health after illness strikes, just as we understand the immense cost of peace once instability takes hold,” he stressed, drawing a powerful analogy to underscore the proactive commitment needed to safeguard peace.
The Minister drew upon the painful lessons learned from past social conflicts that have afflicted various areas in Sulawesi, recognizing them as stark reminders of the high price of compromised security. Consequently, he strongly encouraged all components of Forkopimda to cultivate closer relationships and foster open communication through regular meetings and informal engagements, thereby strengthening their collective cooperation.
Beyond inter-agency collaboration, the Minister also called upon regional heads to actively re-energize the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB). Drawing from extensive experience in conflict resolution, FKUB has repeatedly proven its critical role in fostering interfaith harmony and effectively preventing religiously motivated conflicts from escalating into broader social unrest.
The efficacy of FKUB, he noted, is heavily dependent on the unwavering support of regional heads, particularly through the allocation of adequate budgets. This crucial financial backing ensures that the forum can effectively carry out its vital function of facilitating robust communication within and between various religious communities.
Furthermore, Minister Karnavian urged regional administrations to activate the Social Conflict Handling Team (TPKS) as an essential instrument for early detection and robust conflict prevention. He underscored that virtually every social conflict is preceded by discernible warning signs that can be identified early, necessitating immediate intervention before they spiral into widespread unrest or riots.
“No significant unrest ever occurs instantaneously; it invariably unfolds through a process. It is precisely within this unfolding process that such disturbances must be halted and prevented from erupting,” he clarified, reinforcing the importance of timely and decisive action.
The influential gathering itself saw the attendance of several prominent figures, including the Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago, Head of the Central Statistics Agency Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, the six governors representing all provinces in Sulawesi, along with numerous regents and mayors from across the Sulawesi region, highlighting the event’s significant reach and importance.
Summary
Indonesia’s Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, urged regional heads across Sulawesi to strengthen synergy with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda). This collaboration is deemed critical for maintaining political stability, security, and social cohesion, which are foundational for sustainable development and economic growth. The Minister highlighted Sulawesi’s strategic position and abundant natural resources, emphasizing that continuous security and stability are essential to unlock the island’s full potential.
Karnavian asserted that national development requires a safe environment, making security a shared responsibility of regional governments and Forkopimda. He also called for revitalizing the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB) with sufficient budgets and activating the Social Conflict Handling Team (TPKS) for early detection. These proactive measures are vital for fostering interfaith harmony and preventing social conflicts before they escalate.