Indonesia, a nation rich in cultural diversity and resources, faces significant challenges in maintaining national stability and unity. Besides global threats such as climate change and economic uncertainty, internal threats like ideological extremism, radical beliefs, and misleading information (hoaxes) are increasingly prominent. Equally important, cyber threats have emerged as a critical issue, with rising cyber attacks targeting government infrastructure and major corporations in 2024. In this context, national defense readiness is crucial.

According to the 1945 Constitution, Article 27 Paragraph 3 and Article 30 Paragraph 1, every citizen has the right and obligation to participate in national defense efforts. National defense is no longer merely about bearing arms but also involves readiness in various sectors according to each individual's profession and capacity. This highlights that national defense is a collective responsibility, involving all elements of society, not just the military or police.

In Indonesia, efforts to build national defense readiness are integrated into government policies and programs, including national defense training for Civil Servant Candidates (CPNS). This training aims not only to develop the character of state apparatus but also to strengthen commitment to nationalism, professionalism, and readiness to face threats. Here are several ways CPNS can contribute to maintaining the unity of the Republic of Indonesia:

1. Discipline in Performing Duties
   Discipline is key to maintaining public trust in government. Each CPNS must carry out their duties responsibly and professionally, which includes safeguarding national data confidentiality and combating corruption. Discipline in daily tasks is crucial to ensuring effective public service and protecting the country from various threats.
2. Upholding Integrity and Nationalism
   Radicalism and anti-Pancasila ideologies often exploit weak ideological understanding in society. As state servants, CPNS must exemplify national values and nationalism. Rejecting any influence contrary to Pancasila and supporting national diversity and unity are essential tasks for CPNS in maintaining national integrity.
3. Avoiding Disinformation and Hoaxes
   In the digital age, threats to national integrity come not only from physical attacks but also from false information or hoaxes that can divide society. CPNS must have strong digital literacy to detect and counteract misleading information. The ability to distinguish between true and false information is vital for safeguarding information security and preventing the negative impacts of disinformation.

National defense readiness is a shared responsibility, and CPNS play a critical role in preserving the unity of the Republic of Indonesia. Through discipline, integrity, and strong digital literacy, CPNS can serve as the first line of defense in maintaining national stability against modern threats. In this challenging digital era, national defense readiness must be continuously enhanced through education, training, and awareness of increasingly complex global threats. As state servants, CPNS are expected to be prepared to dedicate themselves to the integrity and sovereignty of Indonesia in the face of various emerging threats.

With active roles and continuously updated readiness, CPNS can ensure that the nation remains safe, stable, and united, allowing Indonesia to continue growing as a progressive and sovereign nation.

- Participant in the Basic Training (Latsar) for CPNS Batch 2 of 2024 at Puslatbang KDOD LAN I - Samarinda