By: Hegenus Wenda*
Papua’s development is the government’s main focus with the aim of realizing prosperity and progress for the Papuan people. This effort is carried out through various integrated programs and policies, with a focus on several main areas. Meanwhile, in recent years, the government has shown a clear focus on developing Papua by paying attention to various strategic aspects. However, complex challenges still lie ahead, one of which is economic inequality.
Therefore, infrastructure development is one of the main pillars in Papua’s development. Projects to build roads, ports, airports and other means of transportation have been implemented in recent years to improve connectivity between regions in Papua. This is expected to support economic growth and accelerate equitable development throughout the province.
In 2024, the Papua Provincial Government emphasizes its focus on sustainable development that leads to a green economy and a healthy environment. This step was taken with the main aim of creating inclusive and fair economic growth for all levels of society.
Green development offers the opportunity to integrate environmental sustainability with economic and social progress. With its abundant natural wealth, Papua has great potential to become a model of sustainable development. However, the challenge is big because we have to maintain a balance between exploitation of natural resources and environmental preservation, including local culture which must be strictly maintained.
Acting Regional Secretary for Papua, Derek Hegemur, expressed his belief in the importance of green development in the Papuan context. Through this strategy, the future generation of young Papuans can see firsthand the benefits generated. Maintained environmental stability will have a positive impact on the welfare of society as a whole.
According to Derek, the government’s commitment is not only limited to general economic development, but is also focused on distributing economic benefits to the local level in order to achieve the right targets, so that it does not only benefit a few people.
Apart from that, Derek also emphasized the importance of implementing Special Autonomy in providing a real impact on society at the local level. Special Autonomy must truly make a positive contribution to improving the welfare of the Papuan people as a whole. The government is committed to continuing to improve welfare and targeted development.
Minister of Home Affairs (Mendagri) Muhammad Tito Karnavian also emphasized the importance of sustainable development towards a green economy by emphasizing the government’s commitment, including regional ones, to build sustainability in managing Indonesia with the theme of a green and sustainable economy. The aim is to promote an environmentally friendly economic model and sustainable development for future generations.
In an effort to achieve this goal, all regional governments in Papua must actively participate in development that has a positive impact on society. This must focus on green development principles, which do not only take into account economic benefits, but also maintain environmental sustainability.
Not only infrastructure, human resource development is also the government’s focus. Likewise, increasing access to education and health to ensure that all Papuan people can experience direct benefits from the development that is taking place. Efforts to improve the quality of education and health services continue to be made to provide better opportunities for Papua’s young generation.
Another strategic step taken was the formation of a New Autonomous Region (DOB) in Papua. This step aims to accelerate development in the region by providing greater autonomy in managing resources and development at the local level. With the existence of DOB, it is hoped that there will be increased efficiency and effectiveness in decision making and implementation of development programs in Papua.
Dr. H. Mansur, SH, MH, Chair of ICMI South Papua Region, who also serves as Head of the Regional Revenue, Financial and Asset Management Agency for South Papua Province, highlighted the importance of strategies that support government steps. In this context, active participation from all relevant parties, including NGOs, community and religious institutions, is very important.
The implementation of the Special Autonomy Law (UU Special Autonomy) Number 2 of 2021 provides a strong legal basis for involving the community as strategic partners in regional development. South Papua Province has great potential to achieve greater and faster progress compared to other provinces, especially because of its strategic geographical location and the high motivation of its people.
However, in the process of accelerating development, the concept of community empowerment must also be prioritized. The government must pay attention to local needs and potential and involve all components of society in the development process. Protection of local customary rights must also be a priority without sacrificing efforts to improve the economy and community welfare.
By looking at the increasingly even progress of Papua’s infrastructure development and increasingly intensive community empowerment efforts, it cannot be denied that Papua has made an important note in its development journey. With strong collaboration between the government and the community and the application of local empowerment principles, it is hoped that Papua will progress further in sustainable and equitable development for all levels of society. The hope is that through this joint effort, Papua can become an example for other regions in realizing green development while maintaining local wealth.
*The author is a Udayana University student from Papua
