Kasau Tonny Harjono leads symbolic fish release and tree planting at Lanud Hang Nadim
The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has reinforced its commitment to national food security by releasing 4,500 tilapia fry and planting coconut trees at Lanud Hang Nadim Batam.
Symbolic Release of Fish Seeds
On Thursday, 25 September 2025, Air Force Chief of Staff (Kasau) Marshal M. Tonny Harjono, S.E., M.M., accompanied by PIA Ardhya Garini Chairperson Ny. Isa Tonny Harjono, symbolically released 4,500 tilapia fry at Taman Raja Melayu, Lanud Hang Nadim. The event was followed by coconut tree planting, reflecting the Air Force’s vision of sustainable food security.
Beyond a Ceremony
Kasau stressed that the program was not merely ceremonial but a tangible contribution of the Air Force to strengthen food availability and community welfare. The initiative aligns with government efforts to ensure stable food supplies nationwide.
Commitment from Lanud Hang Nadim
Lanud Commander Letkol Pnb Hendro Sukamdani, M.Tr.Opsla, briefed Kasau on current infrastructure, personnel readiness, and operational challenges faced at the strategic border location. He highlighted ongoing innovations to support both national defense and community-based programs such as food security.
High-Level Air Force Attendance
The event was also attended by top Air Force officials, including Irjenau Marsdya TNI Dr. Arif Mustofa, Pangkoopsudnas Marsdya TNI Minggit Tribowo, and Pangkorpasgat Marsdya TNI Deny Muis, underscoring the strategic importance of Lanud Hang Nadim. Their presence reflected strong institutional support for Batam as a frontline hub.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
Kasau emphasized the need for synergy with local governments, BP Batam, airport authorities, and TNI-Polri partners to enhance stability in Batam, which lies along critical international shipping routes. This collaborative approach ensures the Air Force contributes not only to defense but also to local development.
Broader Mission of the Air Force
Through this initiative, TNI AU highlighted its dual role: safeguarding Indonesian airspace while actively engaging with society. By promoting food security alongside defense readiness, the Air Force positions itself as a key contributor to Indonesia’s wider development agenda.
The release of 4,500 tilapia seeds in Batam is more than a symbolic act—it reflects the Indonesian Air Force’s long-term commitment to national food resilience. For Batam, a vital border city, the program signals deeper collaboration between defense, government, and society to ensure stability and sustainable growth.
Sources: Batamnews (2025) , ANTARA News (2025)
Keywords: TNI Air Force, Food Security, Batam Program, Lanud Hang Nadim, Tilapia Fish, National Commitment
