National Strategic Projects Accelerate Papua’s Self-Reliance within the Framework of National Development
By: Samuel Yikwa ) *
National Strategic Projects (PSN) in Papua represent a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in ensuring equitable, just, and people-oriented development that reaches even the easternmost regions of Indonesia. PSN is designed as a strategic policy instrument to accelerate Papua’s economic transformation through the strengthening of infrastructure, the development of food production areas, and the enhancement of interregional connectivity. Within the broader framework of national development, Papua is positioned as an important part of Indonesia’s future food security and economic resilience, as well as a symbol of the government’s commitment to eliminating regional development disparities.
The implementation of PSN in Papua has brought renewed optimism to local communities. The development of basic infrastructure such as roads, logistics facilities, and economic support infrastructure serves as a fundamental foundation for opening up isolated areas and facilitating the distribution of goods and production outputs. Improved access increases cost efficiency, strengthens people’s economic activities, and creates a more conducive business climate. With integrated infrastructure, Papua is no longer viewed as a peripheral region, but rather as a new and strategic growth node within the national economy.
In the context of food security, PSN in Papua plays a vital role. The development of large-scale food production areas is a proactive step by the government to safeguard long-term food availability. Papua, with its abundant natural resources and vast development potential, is considered highly capable of supporting national food needs. This effort simultaneously strengthens regional food self-reliance, reducing dependence on supplies from outside the region.
Papua Highlands stands as a concrete example of how PSN is translated into real action with direct impacts on local communities. The acceleration of PSN in the food sector in this region has become a driving force for local economic revival, food security strengthening, and the creation of new employment opportunities. The Papua Highlands Provincial Government ensures that PSN is implemented according to plan and aligned with regional needs, including through the opening of 800 hectares of rice fields in the Tulem area, Witawaya District, Jayawijaya Regency.
Deputy Governor of Papua Highlands Ones Pahabol emphasized that the Tulem area holds a strategic position as it lies at the center of Wamena’s economic activities. He views the development of rice fields in this area as an integral part of the broader PSN framework designed to transform the Papua Highlands into a new food production center. According to him, Jayawijaya Regency is targeted to have approximately 2,000 hectares of rice fields spread across several districts, enabling it to serve as a sustainable backbone of regional food security.
Ones Pahabol also stressed that PSN in the food sector is not solely oriented toward increasing production, but also toward reviving the history and identity of highland communities. Wamena was once known as a rice granary in Papua several decades ago, and this spirit is now being revived through PSN. With strong and independent rice stocks, the Papua Highlands are projected to meet their own food needs while contributing to national food security.
The state’s commitment to the people is reflected in the land management scheme of PSN in the Papua Highlands. The government ensures that land ownership remains with local communities, while the state acts as a facilitator of economic development. This approach underscores that PSN is implemented purely for the public interest, without diminishing the land rights and living spaces of indigenous communities. Through this model, development proceeds in harmony with respect for local values and community wisdom.
Technical and policy support for PSN has also been voiced by the Head of the Papua Highlands Agriculture Office, Petrus Wenda. He regards PSN in the food sector as the main foundation of regional economic development, as it provides budget certainty, technical assistance, and program sustainability. PSN is positioned as a long-term investment aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, strengthening the capacity of local farmers, and creating a sustainable economic ecosystem in the Papua Highlands.
Moreover, PSN generates significant multiplier economic effects. The process of land clearing and rice field management absorbs a large number of local workers, including Papua’s younger generation. The involvement of young people as heavy equipment operators and field workers not only creates employment opportunities, but also enhances skills and human resource competitiveness. In the long term, they are being prepared to become skilled workers capable of contributing across various development sectors.
Local governments continue to push for the accelerated implementation of PSN so that planting and food production activities can be promptly carried out by farmer groups. This acceleration is considered crucial so that the benefits of PSN can be felt tangibly by communities within a relatively short time frame. With strong synergy between central and regional governments, PSN is implemented in a measured, well-planned, and results-oriented manner.
Overall, PSN in Papua reflects a progressive, inclusive, and equitable national development strategy. The program goes beyond physical development, representing a comprehensive effort to build economic self-reliance, strengthen food security, and improve the quality of life of the Papuan people. With consistent government commitment and the support of all stakeholders, PSN is believed to form a strong foundation for a more prosperous, self-reliant, and dignified future for Papua within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.
*) Public Policy Analyst from Papua
