REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono rejected the Five Star General of The Army Award announced by Commander-in-Chief of Indonesian Army General Moeldoko at a meeting with military and police officials on Thursday.

The announcement was made by the State Secretary Sudi Silalahi.

"The President was thankful for the honor bestowed on him, but candidly refused to accept the award. He said that the policy to promote the military is part of his current Presidential duty and obligation," stated Silalahi at a press conference held at the Presidential Office on Thursday.

General Moeldoko earlier noted that under the leadership of President Yudhoyono, the military has undergone modernization and also inducted advanced weapon systems.

He also commended President Yudhoyono for building military facilities and infrastructure, along with tending to the welfare of the soldiers by providing housing, remuneration, and other facilities.

The Commander-in-Chief expressed his gratitude to the President for implementing policies for improving the military.

"Mr. Yudhoyono has shown a strong spirit by building a reliable military. Thus, the Retired General Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono truly deserves the General of The Army title," he added.

The state secretary pointed out that the President will continue to work towards building the country, as part of his obligation and mandate given to him by the people.

In the history of Indonesia, there are only three military leaders who have been considered highly meritorious and awarded the prestigious General of The Army title. The three leaders are General Sudirman, General Abdul Haris Nasution, and General Suharto.

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