UN Honors Indonesian Peacekeepers in Central Africa - Tempo.co English

The Garuda Contingent, part of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Kizi Task Force—a unit assigned to infrastructure development and rehabilitation—and the Indo FPU MINUSCA, received a United Nations (UN) award for their service in supporting the peacekeeping mandate in the Central African Republic.

The UN Medal was presented during a Medal Parade held at Garuda Camp in Bangui on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, as part of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), a peacekeeping mission established in 2014.

The ceremony was led by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of MINUSCA, Valentine Rugwabiza, as the Guest of Honor. The event was also attended by MINUSCA Deputy Force Commander Maj. Gen. Maychel Asmi, a high-ranking TNI officer within MINUSCA’s military leadership structure.

MINUSCA Deputy Force Commander Maj. Gen. Maychel Asmi, Commander of the Indo FPU 7 MINUSCA Task Force, Sr. Comr. Norhayat, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) and Head of MINUSCA, Valentine Rugwabiza, Commander of the TNI Konga XXXVII-L MINUSCA Kizi Task Force, Lt. Col. Septian Hermawan Saputra, and all personnel of the Garuda contingent who are members of the TNI Kizi Task Force and Indo FPU MINUSCA, September 16, 2026. Doc. Indonesian Contingent MINUSCA

The presence of senior MINUSCA officials at the event reflects recognition of the role and contributions Indonesian personnel have made to the UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic. “The dedication and professionalism of Indonesian peacekeepers have been instrumental in the implementation of MINUSCA’s mandate, including in supporting the Mission’s operations, protecting civilians, and creating a safe environment during the election process. The medals awarded today symbolize the excellence, discipline, and commitment demonstrated by these personnel during their service under the United Nations flag,” said Rugwabiza.

The presentation of the UN Medal was the highlight in a series of events recognizing the dedication, discipline, and professionalism of Indonesian peacekeepers during their service.  The award recognizes the personnel’s dedication to carrying out the mission’s mandate in a dynamic and challenging operational environment.

“The success of a peacekeeping mission is built on professionalism, discipline, and the ability to cooperate with personnel from different countries. The presence of the Garuda Contingent in MINUSCA demonstrates the capabilities of Indonesian personnel to carry out their duties in a multinational environment with high professional standards, while simultaneously building trust with local communities and partners on the ground,” said Maj. Gen. Maychel Asmi.

As part of the event, the Medal Parade was followed by demonstrations by SWAT and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) bomb disposal teams, representing the contributions of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) and the Indonesian National Armed Forces Zeni Corps (Zeni TNI) in supporting MINUSCA’s mandate.

The Garuda Contingent also showcased Indonesia’s cultural diversity through a cultural event featuring various performances such as pencak silat, dances from Sumatra, Betawi, and Java, the Balinese Kecak dance, along with a collaborative Nusantara performance.

Commander of the Indo FPU 7 MINUSCA Task Force, Sr. Comr. Norhayat, stated that the contributions of Indonesian personnel are part of Indonesia’s role in supporting peace and stability in the Central African Republic. A similar sentiment was expressed by the Commander of the TNI Konga XXXVII-L MINUSCA Kizi Task Force, Lt. Col. Septian Hermawan Saputra.

“This spirit of service is reflected in contributions that have a tangible impact on peace in the Central African Republic.. These values serve as a guide for Indonesian personnel to maintain integrity, enhance professionalism, and carry out their duties with full responsibility,” said Lt. Col. Septian.