6-7-2023 (JAKARTA) The Head of the National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT), Rycko Amelza Dahniel, has revealed that Indonesia is witnessing a decline in terror attacks. Dahniel emphasized that efforts in preventing and countering violence-based terrorism have shown positive results, as evidenced by the decreasing number of terror attacks in the country.
According to data from the I-KHub BNPT Counter Terrorism and Violent Extremism Outlook platform, Indonesia recorded 49 terror attacks between 2018 and 2022. In 2018, 19 attacks were reported. However, the numbers decreased to 11 in both 2019 and 2020. Subsequently, the figures dropped further to six in 2021 and two in 2022.
Despite the declining trend, Dahniel cautioned against complacency and urged everyone to remain vigilant. He highlighted that terrorist groups have been adopting a new approach, shifting from violent tactics to softer approaches. Additionally, these groups are transitioning from a bullet strategy to a ballot strategy.
Dahniel stressed the importance of public awareness and collaboration among different stakeholders in combating violence-based extremism and terrorism. He emphasized that the BNPT cannot tackle these threats alone and called for a collective effort.
In line with this, the agency recently launched four knowledge products, which include the results of analyses and studies related to countering violent extremism leading to terrorism in Indonesia. These knowledge products encompass the I-KHubBNPT Counter Terrorism and Violent Extremism Outlook, K-Hub PCVE Outlook, Mid-Term Evaluation of the National Action Plan on Prevention of Extremism (RAN PE), and Analysis of Local Government Readiness to Implement RAN PE.
Dahniel expressed hope that these knowledge products would serve as a foundation for further discussions on preventing violent extremism in Indonesia. He emphasized the importance of engaging various stakeholders and receiving feedback on the analyses and studies conducted.
