The National Counterterrorism Agency (BNPT) established ten regional Co-ordination Forums for the Prevention of Terrorism (Forum Koordinasi Penanggulangan Terrorisme/FKPT) to deter attacks in the run-up to the presidential election.

BNPT Deputy Chief of Prevention, Protection and Deradicalisation Agus Surya Bakti said the forums were established because of indications radicals may launch attacks as the July 9th election nears.

"Democracy is one of terrorists' enemies. Therefore, we want to ensure that the election and Ramadan will run smoothly," he told Khabar Southeast Asia.

Indonesian officials will work diligently to ensure everyone's safety, Agus added. "If we conducted the legislative election safely, we hope that the upcoming presidential election will also run peacefully," he said.

FKPT are community groups whose members monitor their surroundings and report any suspicious, grassroots-level activity to security officials.

Agus emphasised the role of local knowledge in preventing terrorism.

"We have involved community leaders, religious leaders, academicians and local authorities in observing and being aware of their surroundings. All of these elements are part of the local wisdom that we need to tap into. We have chosen ten provinces that are most prone to terrorism and violence," he said.

The provinces committed to FKPT include South Sulawesi, Central Sulawesi, North Sulawesi, DKI Jakarta, West Java, Lampung, North Sumatra, Aceh, West Nusa Tenggara and Maluku.

Jakarta resident Dewi Ashari said BNPT's collaboration with FKPT is a brilliant idea.

"Indeed, community is the key. They are the closest eyes to the situation on the ground," she told Khabar. "I am confident that with this effort, the election and Ramadan this year will be safe.

"This is our responsibility too," she continued. "I think each community has the potential to aid in security efforts and to use its resources wisely in helping the government prevent terrorism."

Tangerang Islamic cleric Muhammad Wahyudi wants a peaceful election.

"Let's put our hope together. This is the time we all need to be united regardless of our religious beliefs. The election is from us and for us," he said.

Wahyudi also mentioned if communities are able to successfully secure the region, it will demonstrate Indonesia's commitment to improving tolerance and pursuing democracy.

"It will be a victory for Muslims to conduct a peaceful Ramadan and for all Indonesians to have a successful election," he told Khabar. "Also, we hope to have a good leader who will embrace tolerance in Indonesia."