Indonesia Highlights Role of Research in Strengthening National Defense

RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Stella Christie, has emphasized the strategic role of higher education, science, and technology in strengthening the country’s defense system. She said the need for highly skilled human resources extends across all strategic sectors, including defense, which plays a vital role in safeguarding national sovereignty and security.

Speaking at the final session of a webinar series jointly organized by the Indonesian Defense University and King’s College London Bogor, Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Stella highlighted the importance of international collaboration in education. She said knowledge exchange with global institutions helps broaden students’ perspectives on contemporary defense issues.

“Through this program, you have been introduced to more professors and more research fields relevant to defense,” Stella said. “You now have the opportunity to explore further, read more, and gain a deeper understanding of defense, geopolitics, and strategic issues.”

According to her, increasingly complex global challenges require stronger human resource capacity and strategic analytical skills. She noted that universities serve as key centers for research-based innovation, including innovations that support national defense capabilities.

The Vice Minister also pointed to the government’s commitment to strengthening Indonesia’s research ecosystem. She said increased investment in research is expected to accelerate innovation and contribute to national development.

“Under President Prabowo’s leadership, the national research budget has more than doubled,” Stella said. “This is an extraordinary development for anyone who understands the importance of research.”

She encouraged defense cadets and students to make research an integral part of their educational journey. She said meaningful research begins with curiosity, a habit of reading, and a willingness to continuously learn from scientific developments.

She expressed hope that a stronger research culture among young Indonesians would contribute to the advancement of defense technology and innovation. According to her, developing research-oriented talent is essential for preparing Indonesia to address future security challenges and compete in an increasingly knowledge-based world.