Pangkat Polisi

Pangkat polisi, or police ranks, in Indonesia are a hierarchical system used to delineate authority, responsibility, and experience within the Indonesian National Police (POLRI). This structured system allows for efficient command and control, clear lines of communication, and a defined career path for officers. The ranks are visually represented by insignia worn on the uniform, making it easy to identify an officer’s position within the force.

The police ranks are generally divided into three main categories: Officers (Perwira), Enlisted (Bintara), and Non-Commissioned Officers (Tamtama). Each category is further subdivided into distinct levels, each with specific responsibilities and qualifications.

Officers (Perwira): This is the highest tier within the police force, requiring significant education, training, and leadership skills. Officers generally hold command or managerial positions. The officer ranks are further broken down into three levels:

• High-Ranking Officers (Perwira Tinggi): These are the highest-ranking officers, typically holding the most senior leadership positions in the National Police. The ranks, in ascending order, are:
  • Brigadier General (Brigadir Jenderal Polisi)
  • Inspector General (Inspektur Jenderal Polisi)
  • Commissioner General (Komisaris Jenderal Polisi)
  • Police General (Jenderal Polisi) – the highest rank, usually held by the Chief of the National Police.
• Middle-Ranking Officers (Perwira Menengah): These officers usually hold middle management positions, commanding battalions, departments, or sections. The ranks, in ascending order, are:
  • Police Commissioner (Komisaris Besar Polisi)
  • Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ajun Komisaris Besar Polisi)
  • Police Commissioner (Komisaris Polisi)
• First Officers (Perwira Pertama): These are junior officers, often starting their careers in supervisory or specialized roles. The ranks, in ascending order, are:
  • First Police Inspector (Inspektur Polisi Satu)
  • Second Police Inspector (Inspektur Polisi Dua)
  • Police Sub-Inspector (Ajun Inspektur Polisi Satu)
  • Police Second Sub-Inspector (Ajun Inspektur Polisi Dua)

Enlisted (Bintara): This category forms the backbone of the police force, carrying out day-to-day operations and enforcing laws on the ground. Enlisted personnel often have direct contact with the public. The ranks, in ascending order, are:

• Police Chief Brigadier (Ajun Brigadir Polisi)
• Police Brigadier (Brigadir Polisi)
• Police First Brigadier (Brigadir Polisi Satu)
• Police Second Brigadier (Brigadir Polisi Dua)
• Police Chief Sergeant (Sersan Kepala Polisi)
• Police Sergeant Major (Sersan Mayor Polisi)
• Police First Sergeant (Sersan Satu Polisi)
• Police Second Sergeant (Sersan Dua Polisi)

Non-Commissioned Officers (Tamtama): This is the entry-level category, often involved in basic patrol duties and supporting other officers. The ranks, in ascending order, are:

• Police Chief Private (Bhayangkara Kepala)
• Police Private First Class (Bhayangkara Satu)
• Police Private (Bhayangkara Dua)

The progression through these ranks is typically based on a combination of factors, including years of service, performance evaluations, completion of specialized training, and availability of positions. Promotion exams are often a requirement for advancement, particularly for higher ranks. Maintaining discipline and adherence to the ethical code of conduct are crucial for career advancement within the police force. Understanding the pangkat polisi system is vital for anyone interacting with the Indonesian National Police, as it clarifies the chain of command and the level of authority an officer holds.