By: Steven L. Kogoya
Development in Papua during the presidency of Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has shown significant progress in various sectors. Since the beginning of his term, President Jokowi has been committed to accelerating development in Papua to improve the welfare and enhance the quality of life for the people in the region. This success is evident from various infrastructure projects, improvements in public services, and the development of human resources initiated by the central government.
Since the issuance of Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 9 of 2020 regarding the Acceleration of Welfare Development in the Provinces of Papua and West Papua, the government has been massively building infrastructure, improving accessibility, and providing adequate public facilities. Various ministries and agencies are collaborating to expedite the development process, which also involves the Papuan community at various stages of implementation.
Member of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sulaeman L. Hamzah, stated that the development of Papua has indeed become one of the main focuses during President Jokowi’s era. In his view, the steps taken by the government have successfully improved the welfare of the community, particularly in terms of accessibility and public services. Development in Papua is not limited to physical infrastructure, but also encompasses broader social and economic development.
A similar view was expressed by the Chairman of the Interfaith Communication Forum (FKUB) of Jayapura Regency, Albert Yoku, who also appreciated the central government’s efforts in the development of Papua. According to him, the people of Papua can now feel the benefits of various development projects that have been carried out. He also emphasized that President Jokowi’s commitment to Papua has had a positive impact, not only in infrastructure but also in the social and economic lives of the community.
One of the greatest achievements during President Jokowi’s era is the infrastructure development that has drastically changed accessibility in Papua. The Trans Papua Road project is one of the main examples of that success. With the construction of roads connecting various remote areas, the community can now more easily access healthcare services, education, and other economic activities. The Trans Papua Road also facilitates the distribution of goods and services, which impacts economic growth in the region.
In addition to the Trans Papua Road, the construction of airports, ports, and other public facilities also strengthens Papua’s connectivity with other regions in Indonesia. This easier access allows for increased mobility of goods and people, which in turn enhances economic and social interactions in Papua. Strong infrastructure has become the foundation for sustainable development in the region, while also opening up opportunities for investment and tourism.
However, infrastructure development in Papua is not just about physical accessibility. The government is also building educational, health, and other social facilities to support the overall welfare of the Papuan people. Thus, this effort aims not only to reduce regional disparities but also to directly improve the living standards of the community.
Another main focus of development during President Jokowi’s era is the development of human resources in Papua. One of the highlighted flagship programs is the provision of scholarships for Papuan students to continue their education both domestically and abroad. This program is designed to improve the quality of education in Papua and to produce a generation of youth that is excellent and highly competitive. Thus, the young people of Papua are expected to contribute more significantly to the development of their region.
The establishment of the Papua Youth Creative Hub (PYCH) is evidence of the government’s commitment to developing human resources in Papua. Through PYCH, young people in Papua receive training in various fields such as technology, entrepreneurship, and creative arts. This step is in line with President Jokowi’s vision to create superior human resources that are ready to compete at both national and international levels. Development in Papua is no longer just about infrastructure, but also about more inclusive and sustainable community empowerment.
Programs like PYCH allow young people in Papua to receive creative and technical training, enabling them to contribute to the development of their own region. In addition, this step helps create broader job opportunities for the young generation of Papua, which in turn encourages local economic growth. This sustainable human resource development is an integral part of President Jokowi’s grand vision to build a more inclusive and equitable Indonesia.
Although many advancements have been made, development challenges in Papua still exist. The vast region of Papua and its challenging geographical conditions often pose obstacles in the development process, especially in remote areas that are still difficult to access. However, with a strong foundation and ongoing commitment, these challenges can be overcome.
The sustainability of development in Papua will heavily depend on the upcoming government. Great hopes are placed on the elected President, Prabowo Subianto, and the elected Vice President, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, to continue the programs that have been initiated by President Jokowi. The development that has begun requires continuity so that its benefits can be optimally felt by the people of Papua.
With the foundation laid during two terms of President Jokowi’s administration, Papua is now on the right track towards improving welfare and achieving sustainable progress. The success of this development serves as a strong foundation for Papua to continue growing and reaching its maximum potential.
Development in Papua during President Jokowi’s era has brought significant changes that deserve appreciation. Massive infrastructure, improved accessibility, and social programs aimed at the welfare of the Papuan people are tangible manifestations of the central government’s commitment. Papua is no longer seen as an underdeveloped region, but as an integral part of national development.
With a strong synergy between the central government, local governments, and the community, Papua is expected to continue to develop and progress. The challenges certainly still exist, but with the right policies and sustained commitment, Papua has great potential to become a prosperous region and contribute maximally to Indonesia.
The writer is a Papua student in Yogyakarta.