Bashir-linked camp not for terror: court

Supporters of the radical cleric Abu Bakar Bashir have defended the military camp linked to the recent Jakarta attack, saying it was not established to create terror.

Just weeks after the bombings and shootings in Jakarta on January 14, hundreds of Bashir's supporters descended onto Cilacap court in Central Java on Tuesday to hear the 77-year-old's bid to be freed from prison.

Known in Australia as the spiritual leader of the militant group behind the 2002 Bali bombings, Jemaah Islamiah, Bashir was acquitted of masterminding that attack on appeal.

But he is now seeking early release from his 15-year sentence in 2011 over his support of a terrorist training camp in Aceh.

It was in this camp that police say those responsible for the recent assault in Indonesia's capital trained.

Leader at the former military training camp in Aceh, Komarudin, defended the camp saying their activities were not "for terror".

It was only after the camp was surrounded by police that Bashir was contacted for help.

"We asked for his support in praying because he is the eldest among the clerics (so) his prayer would be granted," Komarudin said.

"Abu Bakar Bashir is the chosen one. Allah has given him the courage to speak justice," he added later.

Abdullah Sonata, an arms supplier, said the training camp was intended to support the Palestine cause.

He said he sourced the weapons from a former police officer, Sofyan Dsauri who is now serving a 10-year prison term.

The hearing continues.