Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Head of Security Maintenance Board (Kabaharkam) of the Indonesian National Police (INP) Commissioner General Fadil Imran emphasized the importance of police-community closeness in rebuilding public trust during a hearing with The House of Representatives (DPR) Commission III in Jakarta on Monday (19/6/23).

"To regain trust, the police must actively engage with the community, as true strength lies in closeness rather than mere authority. Being present among the community is essential for the police, as it represents their real power," he said.

He highlighted that the peak of public trust in the INP was reached in 2021. During that time, amidst the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia, the police consistently provided vital services within the community, including delivering medicine, accompanying individuals to hospitals, organizing vaccination drives, and distributing government aid packages.

He said, "The police embody the roles of protectors, guardians, helpers, and friends. This essence of crime prevention defines how the police should be present in communities."

He further explained that Indonesia's communication culture is characterized by high-context, emphasizing the need for heightened social sensitivity to foster unity and mutual understanding. Consequently, face-to-face communication remains highly relevant and indispensable, even in the digital era.

"In addition, a sense of security is like a flavor. The police must be embedded within the community, actively collaborating, problem-solving, and mobilizing the community to establish a safe neighborhood," he concluded.

(ndt/hn/um)