Ministry of Defense Affirms No Ban on Hijab for Defense University Cadets

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia has issued an explanation regarding information circulating on social media and in media reports concerning the wearing of hijab by female cadets at the Republic of Indonesia Defense University (Unhan RI).

The Ministry of Defense underscored that Rector Regulation of the Republic of Indonesia Defense University No. 28 of 2025 concerning Guidelines for Cadet Life at the Defense University does not contain any specific provision prohibiting female cadets from wearing hijab.

Head of the Defense Information Bureau at the Secretariat General of the Ministry of Defense, Brigadier General TNI Rico Ricardo Sirait, conveyed that the regulation instead places religious devotion as part of the Cadet Code of Honor. He said cadets are expected to become religious individuals who practice their faith in accordance with their belief in God Almighty and observe the teachings of their respective religions and beliefs, both in official duties and in their personal lives.

In addition, the regulation explicitly recognizes the right of cadets to practice their religious worship and participate in mental and spiritual development programs during their education at the Defense University.

In a press release received by RRI VOI on Thursday, September 10, 2026, the Ministry also addressed information concerning the non-use of hijab during Basic Military Training, which is conducted at the Military Academy in Magelang. The provision applies to certain activities, taking into consideration safety and security aspects during training, particularly activities that require freedom of movement or the use of training equipment. This provision is a technical arrangement for the implementation of Basic Military Training and is not intended to restrict religious beliefs or the practice of religious teachings.

“In daily life, Muslim female cadets may wear hijab while in their residential areas or dormitories, as well as during certain activities outside the campus, including while undertaking internships,” Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait mentioned.

Meanwhile, during educational and training activities, cadet uniforms are adjusted according to the type and nature of each activity, while continuing to observe the principles of uniformity, discipline, security, and safety. The Rector Regulation also stipulates that rest periods, prayers, and meals are carried out in accordance with the religious principles and beliefs of each cadet.

Moreover, as part of the evaluation and improvement of the education system, the Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia has instructed that the regulations governing cadet uniforms at the Defense University be adjusted to accommodate the wearing of hijab by Muslim female cadets.

Rico also explained that its use will be regulated uniformly and proportionately, including guidelines for wearing hijab that take into account neatness, discipline, security, safety, and freedom of movement during educational and training activities. The Ministry of Defense considers that educational discipline and character-building are not incompatible with respect for the practice of religion and personal beliefs.

“This adjustment is also part of an effort to clarify provisions that previously did not specifically regulate the wearing of hijab by Muslim female cadets, so that in the future there will be a common understanding and consistent implementation throughout all cadet educational activities at the Defense University,” he said.

The education system at the Defense University is aimed at developing professional, disciplined, and character-driven defense human resources with strong national awareness, while upholding religious values and diversity as an inseparable part of the identity of the Indonesian nation.