The Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI) plans to deploy warships in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, to maintain security at the 42nd ASEAN Summit on May 9-11, 2023. TNI Commander Admiral Yudo Margono stated that arrangements regarding the placement of defense equipment and terrain conditions in Labuan Bajo had been discussed at a recent meeting. Margono remarked that they will ready warships because the venue is at the seafront. They will also adjust the defense equipment with the existing terrain due to the narrow street leading to the venue. Margono added that he needs to discuss the matter with relevant parties and visit the area before finalizing the plan. Margono instructed military top brass to ready emergency response plans to anticipate possible security risks during the international event. On Monday (April 10), the TNI commander called on officials to take requisite preemptive measures to handle livestock, such as cows and goats, that could roam loose and block roads leading to the venue during D-day. The TNI commander also received reports from each unit commander about preparing security arrangements for the summit.
