Protecting Us All, But Who Protects Them?
(Reflection on National Security Guard Day, December 30th)
By Dr. Ali Aminulloh, M.Pd.I. ME
Who is the first to stand while we are still asleep?
Who ensures the door is secure before we can rest easy?
Ironically, those tasked with maintaining security often live in a state of uncertainty.
In many developed countries, the security profession is positioned as a strategic job with multi-layered training, reasonable working hours, and a decent salary. Meanwhile, in this country, it is not uncommon for a security guard to stand for hours, braving sleep, weather, and risks for wages that barely match their responsibilities. This paradox disturbs our conscience: our security depends on them, but our attention often fails to reflect on their plight.
From a Silent Guard Post
In small posts, at the gates of schools, campuses, hospitals, offices, and even housing complexes, security guards are the first faces we encounter. They greet us with a smile, even though they may not have slept well the night before. They politely reprimand, even though the risk of anger is always present. They are alert in critical situations, even though their names rarely appear in the news.
Security guards work in a quiet area, between busy days and long nights. There’s not much cheering, not always applause. But it’s from them that a sense of security is born.
A History that Affirms Their Role
December 30th was designated National Security Guard Day to commemorate a crucial state decision. On December 30, 1980, through Decree of the Minister of Home Affairs No. 194/1980, the Security Guard Unit (Satpam) was recognized as a vital component of the national security system. This determination emphasized that security is not solely the responsibility of state officials, but also the result of the collaboration of trained citizens who stand on the front lines of public spaces.
The Meaning Behind the Uniform
The commemoration of National Security Guard Day carries a deeper message than mere ceremony.
First, appreciation: recognizing the services and dedication of security guards who maintain order and a sense of security. Second, awareness: encouraging the public to understand that security is an ecosystem, and security guards are its vital link.
Third, professionalism: encouraging continuous training, job protection, and adequate welfare.
In the security world, the term AA is often interpreted as a symbol of security, an affirmation of the identity of the task: being present, vigilant, and responsible.
More Than Just Guarding
Security guards are not just doormen. They are daily risk managers: reading situations, preventing conflict, calming panic, and acting quickly in emergencies. In the silence of their duties, they practice discipline, ethics, and loyalty, values we often demand but rarely appreciate.
Time to Honor the Forgotten
Today, December 30th, let’s pause. Say thank you. Greet them with respect. Push for fair policies: humane working hours, living wages, adequate training, and equal protection. Because the security we enjoy is born from their often unseen dedication.
Behind that simple uniform, there is a great and noble task.
And today, we choose to see it and appreciate it.***
Indonesia, December 30, 2025
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