Jakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo expressed satisfaction with recent surveys showing improved public perception of the Indonesian National Police (Polri). Speaking at Polri's 78th anniversary. or Bhayangkara Day, ceremony at Monas Square on Monday afternoon, Jokowi stressed the need for Polri to enhance professionalism and impartiality in law enforcement.

According to a survey by Indikator Politik Indonesia from December 30, 2023, to January 6, 2024, public trust in Polri stands at 75 percent, ranking fourth among public institutions after the Indonesian Military (TNI), the President, and the Attorney General's Office.

Public trust in Polri had dropped to 60 percent in 2022 due to the Ferdy Sambo case but has since rebounded. Before the recent controversies surrounding Sambo, who headed Polri's Internal Affairs Division, Polri enjoyed public trust at around 80 percent.

Jokowi emphasized the importance of maintaining Polri's image through effective public communication, exemplary behavior, and a service ethic oriented towards the people. "Challenges are increasingly complex, from geopolitical to technological aspects, all fraught with uncertainty," Jokowi remarked.

Looking ahead, Jokowi stressed that Polri must become more professional and impartial in law enforcement, particularly in combating sophisticated transnational crimes. "Polri must keep pace with advancements in knowledge and technology," he added.

Acknowledging Polri's central role in society, Jokowi noted the close scrutiny of its actions by the public. "The public observes every move and decision of Polri," he said.

Jokowi recognized Polri's crucial role in national resilience against various challenges. "In the future, Polri must be agile, adaptive, and possess a strategic outlook, serving as a cooling system," he emphasized.

He also extended congratulations on the 78th Bhayangkara Day and thanked the entire Polri family for their dedication. "Thank you for your hard work and dedication in maintaining security and stability during the 2024 election and major development agendas, enabling our nation to thrive amidst global challenges and uncertainties," Jokowi concluded.

According to Beritasatu.com, the Bhayangkara anniversary ceremony began at approximately 4 p.m. at Monas Square, Jakarta. In addition to Jokowi, President-elect Prabowo Subianto attended the event, despite recently undergoing a leg operation stemming from a parachute accident 40 years ago.

Also present were Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, Jusuf Kalla, Trade Minister Zulkifli Hasan, Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Chairman Bambang Soesatyo, MPR Vice Chairman Ahmad Muzani, and House Speaker Puan Maharani.