Behind the secure gates of the Indonesian National Police Education and Training Institute (Setukpa Lemdiklat Polri) in Sukabumi, West Java, stands a place of serenity that has quietly witnessed generations of public servants in their journey of service. Pura Giri Wira Dharma is more than a Hindu temple—it embodies the enduring values of discipline, spirituality, and religious harmony that have long been nurtured within Indonesia's National Police.
A Legacy Rooted in History
The spiritual history of Pura Giri Wira Dharma dates back to the 1960s, when the institution was still known as the Indonesian Armed Forces Academy (AKABRI). At that time, Hindu cadets had only a modest indoor prayer room located in the Dharma Hartono area. Although simple in appearance, the space served as an essential sanctuary where cadets could cultivate inner balance amid the demanding physical and mental training of police education.
Recognizing the growing need for a proper place of worship, the institution initiated the construction of a dedicated temple in an open area in 2001. A strategic site was selected directly in front of the Anton Soejarwo Building, symbolizing the integration of spiritual values within the educational environment.
After several years of development, the temple was officially inaugurated on 29 July 2007 by the then Commandant of the Police Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (Secapa Polri), Brigadier General of Police Drs. H. Ibrahim, S.H., M.H.
The Philosophy Behind Its Transformation
On 29 September 2010, the temple underwent a major renovation with the addition of a Gelung Kori (main ceremonial gateway) and a Candi Bentar (split gateway), enhancing both its architectural beauty and symbolic meaning. The renovated temple was inaugurated by Brigadier General of Police Drs. Edi Prawoto, S.H., M.Hum., then Commandant of Secapa Polri.
The inauguration deliberately coincided with the Hindu sacred day of Pagerwesi, a celebration that symbolizes spiritual protection and the strengthening of wisdom. Literally meaning "Iron Fence," Pagerwesi represents the moral and spiritual fortitude needed to safeguard oneself from negative influences.
This philosophy resonates deeply with the mission of every member of the Indonesian National Police. Just as an iron fence offers protection, strong spiritual values serve as a moral compass, guiding officers to uphold integrity, professionalism, and justice in serving the nation.
The temple's name, Giri Wira Dharma, carries equally profound symbolism. Giri means mountain, representing a sacred place of spiritual elevation; Wira signifies courage and heroism; while Dharma refers to righteousness and universal truth. Together, these elements reflect the aspiration to cultivate police officers who are courageous in duty, steadfast in character, and guided by ethical principles.
From a Private Sanctuary to an Inclusive Place of Worship
Originally established to serve Hindu cadets undergoing police education, Pura Giri Wira Dharma has gradually evolved into a place of worship open to the wider Hindu community.
Today, devotees from outside the National Police are welcomed to participate in religious observances and ceremonies. This transformation reflects the institution's commitment to inclusivity and religious harmony, demonstrating that the police education environment also serves as a space that embraces Indonesia's rich cultural and religious diversity.
Visiting Pura Giri Wira Dharma
Pura Giri Wira Dharma is located within the Setukpa Lemdiklat Polri complex and is easily accessible to Hindu worshippers and visitors interested in Indonesia's religious and cultural heritage.
Location:
Setukpa Lemdiklat Polri Complex
Jl. Bhayangkara No. 4, Karamat, Gunungpuyuh District
Sukabumi City, West Java 43122, Indonesia
Surrounded by the cool highland climate of Sukabumi, the temple showcases traditional Balinese architecture within a peaceful educational setting, offering visitors a tranquil atmosphere rarely found in an urban environment.
A Living Monument to Service and Dharma
Pura Giri Wira Dharma stands as a powerful reminder that behind the discipline of the police uniform lies a profound spiritual dimension. For generations of police officers, the temple has served not only as a place of worship but also as a source of moral guidance throughout their service to the nation.
More than a religious sanctuary, it represents the Indonesian National Police's enduring commitment to upholding Dharma—truth, righteousness, and ethical responsibility—as the foundation of public service. As it continues to welcome both police personnel and the wider Hindu community, Pura Giri Wira Dharma remains a living symbol of faith, integrity, tolerance, and devotion in service to Indonesia.
Editor : I Made Juni Saputra
Photographer : I Gusti Ngurah Sathya Dharma
Contributed and translated by Muhammad Mahmud Alhushori
