Continue to Strengthen Unity, Papua is an Inseparable Integral Part of the Republic of Indonesia
By: Floren Simbiak
Papua, as one of the easternmost regions of Indonesia, continues to be emphasized as an integral and inseparable part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). Since the official integration in 1969 through the Determination of People’s Opinion (Pepera), the commitment to maintaining Papua as part of the NKRI has never waned.
The central government and the Papuan people work together in various aspects, including development, education and the economy, to ensure that this region develops in line with other provinces in Indonesia.
In recent years, Papua has experienced rapid development in various sectors. Infrastructure projects initiated by the central government are real evidence of the commitment to improving the welfare of the Papuan people.
The construction of roads, airports and ports is a top priority to improve connectivity between Papua and other regions in Indonesia. This step aims to facilitate the mobility of goods and people, which directly contributes to local economic growth.
In addition, the education and health sectors also receive special attention. Investment in the construction of schools, universities, and health facilities in Papua has had a positive impact on the community. Better access to education and health services is key to improving the quality of life of the Papuan people.
Indeed, accelerating the development of welfare throughout the Papua region continues to be a priority and focus of the government in realizing equality in all corners of Indonesia.
However, to successfully implement these efforts, of course, is not an easy thing. Therefore, it is very important to strengthen collaboration or unity and togetherness with all parties including stakeholders as a foundation in accelerating the development of the welfare of the region nicknamed Bumi Cenderawasih.
The Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia (Wapres RI) KH Ma’ruf Amin explained that one of the government’s strategic steps in realizing accelerated development in Papua is by implementing the formation of New Autonomous Regions (DOB) so that they can provide faster services and increase community welfare.
It is not impossible that with this, it will help produce innovation and find solutions to every problem in each region. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs (Wamendagri) John Wempi Wetipo said that his party is fully committed to working for the progress of the Land of Papua.
Some of the steps taken by the government include forming a Working Group Team (Pokja) which functions to strengthen support for accelerating the development of community welfare.
Because it is very important to continue to strengthen unity and togetherness within the framework of the Republic of Indonesia, Papuan Traditional Figures also appealed to all elements of society in Bumi Cenderawasih to be able to unite in repelling all types of movements that cause division, such as the OPM which is very destructive and disrupts the stability of the country.
In fact, Papua itself is an integral part that is inseparable from the Republic of Indonesia. In addition, under the auspices of the Red and White, Bumi Cenderawasih is always in a safe, comfortable and peaceful state full of peace.
However, because of the existence of OPM, they damage the values of unity and oneness that are so important among the people. Therefore, it is necessary to join hands with all people from various elements to repel the vile attacks of OPM.
One of the Papuan community leaders, Yanto Eluay, emphasized that now is no longer the time for the Papuan Indigenous People (OAP) to be easily divided by various interests.
Amidst various development efforts, the Papuan people continue to show their gratitude and commitment to strengthening unity with the Republic of Indonesia. Various community groups, from traditional leaders, youth, to women, play a role in maintaining the stability and integrity of the region. The involvement of local communities in development not only strengthens the sense of belonging to the Republic of Indonesia, but also strengthens the relationship between Papua and other regions in Indonesia.
Although various advances have been achieved, challenges remain in maintaining the unity of Papua with the Republic of Indonesia. However, with a strong commitment from the central government, supported by the active participation of the Papuan people, the hope to continue strengthening unity is growing.
Papua has a strategic role in developing Indonesia from the periphery and as one of the regions rich in natural resource potential, Papua is an important asset for the nation.
The unity of Papua with the Republic of Indonesia is an unshakable foundation. The integration of Papua into the Republic of Indonesia is not only seen from a geographical aspect, but also from the aspect of diversity and unity that reflects the spirit of Indonesia. With this spirit, equitable and sustainable development in Papua will continue to be encouraged, ensuring that Papua remains an integral and valuable part of the Republic of Indonesia.
The government and people of Papua will continue to work together to realize equitable progress and ensure that Papua continues to develop as an integral part of a sovereign Indonesia.
*) Papuan Yapis Students
