The Indonesian government is mapping out new strategies to reinforce national defence in the wake of the spying scandal that has led to a diplomatic row with neighbouring Australia.

Among the moves is the procurement of a new satellite that will be operational next year to prevent future spying by foreign agencies, said Indonesian Defence Minister Purnomo Yusgiantoro.

Purnomo told reporters after a closed-door meeting on the future of the Indonesia-Australia relationship on November 28 that Indonesia is currently renting satellites from foreign providers for its defence system, which leaves the country vulnerable to eavesdropping activities.

“It’s really important for us to have our own satellite for strategic purposes such as security and intelligence operations inside and outside the country,” said he.

In addition to improving defence and communications technology, the government will also upgrade the quality of human resources in state agencies tasked with national security, he added.

Mahfudz Siddiq, Chairman of the House of Representatives Commission I, which oversees defence, foreign affairs and information, said the House has approved a project to provide budget for the Communications and Information Ministry to purchase the satellite early next year.-VNA