Indonesia's cardinal stresses significance of 'spirit of self-denial’ in his message to National Police

Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo of Jakarta emphasized the significance of a spirit of humility and self-denial in the Indonesian police's public service.

"Serve the community with a spirit of humility and be a servant with a spirit of self-denial," said Cardinal Suharyo, adding that obedience to the law and carrying out the duties of responsibility and authority as a state apparatus should trump personal privilege.

On July 1, Cardinal Suharyo, as bishop of Ordinariatus Castrensis Indonesia (OCI), also known as the Catholic Diocese within the Indonesian National Armed Forces and the Republic of Indonesia Police, delivered the message commemorating the 77th birthday of the Indonesian National Police.

"Happy Bhayangkara Day,” Cardinal stated. "Congratulations on the 77th anniversary of the momentum of the unification of the police corps in the regions into one national unit under the government of the Republic of Indonesia."

The Cardinal reminded the police that the term 'Bhayangkara' is reminiscent of the Indonesian hero Gajah Mada, who was responsible for naming the Majapahit Kingdom's security guards.

"The history of the police as the Bhayangkara of the country is the hope and prayer of all levels of society," said the cardinal, adding that "the police can become a genuinely honorable and reliable institution."

Moreover, he is grateful and prays that on Bhayangkara's 77th birthday, the police institution will be able to continue to seek out innovative ways to complete difficult domestic duties while continuing to perform excellent work.

The cardinal believes that the Indonesian police will always be 'capable of presenting a precise police force' while maintaining a 'calm atmosphere,' especially before the democratic general election process that will lead to a golden Indonesia.

The prelate concluded, "Live modestly and refrain from living extravagantly, as the police's service to the community is to prioritize the common good over individual interests."