By: Yonas Kogoya*
Security and stability in Papua continue to strengthen, as synergy between security forces, local governments, and the community increases in maintaining regional order. Various strategic measures taken by the TNI and Polri are a crucial part of the state’s efforts to provide a sense of security and ensure sustainable development in Papua. This situation demonstrates the state’s strong commitment to protecting the Papuan people, enabling them to carry out their daily activities calmly, productively, and with hope for a more prosperous future.
The joint operation by the TNI under the control of the Joint Regional Defense Command (Kogabwilhan) III and Koops Habema is clear evidence of the state’s commitment to maintaining security and stability in Papua. The authorities’ success in restricting the movement of separatist groups and securing various combat equipment demonstrates that security enforcement efforts are being carried out professionally, measuredly, and responsibly. These measures also provide optimism that Papua is increasingly in a conducive condition to support development in various sectors.
Commander of Kogabwilhan III, Lieutenant General Lucky Avianto, emphasized that all security operations aim to ensure the public can safely carry out their activities, including children attending school and those working to build the regional economy. This statement affirms that the state’s primary focus is protecting the people and creating a peaceful atmosphere for the advancement of Papua. Security is not only about safeguarding territory, but also about safeguarding the public’s hopes for equitable development and prosperity.
The security forces’ success in safeguarding strategic areas in Papua also demonstrates the strengthening of cross-sector coordination. Public support for efforts to maintain stability is a crucial factor accelerating the creation of a safe and orderly environment. In various regions, communities are beginning to experience tangible benefits from the increasingly controlled security situation, from the smooth running of economic activities and education to improved social services.
The strengthening of security along the Dogiyai-Paniai route by the Central Papua Regional Police is a concrete example of the security forces’ readiness to ensure the safety and smooth flow of public transportation. This route is the lifeblood of social and economic activity in the Central Papua region. With the active presence of security forces, the public can be assured that the state is always present to ensure the safety and comfort of its citizens in carrying out their activities.
Central Papua Regional Police Chief, Brigadier General Jermias Rontini, stated that the security forces continue to work to ensure the security situation remains safe and under control. This statement reflects the security forces’ dedication to providing maximum protection to the public. The officers’ professionalism in handling various security situations demonstrates that Papua’s stability is a shared priority for the sake of creating a peaceful and harmonious community.
In addition to carrying out their security functions, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) officers also consistently demonstrate a humanistic approach in building rapport with the Papuan people. Assistance to residents, communication with community leaders, and swift action to assist communities in the field demonstrate that the officers are present not only as security guards but also as community partners in creating shared peace. This persuasive and familial approach is an important foundation for strengthening public trust in the state.
The Head of Information for the TNI Habema Operations Command, Lieutenant Colonel M. Wirya Arthadiguna, emphasized that all officers’ actions always prioritize the Rules of Engagement (ROE) principles, upholding the law, human rights, and humanitarian values. This demonstrates that security operations in Papua are carried out responsibly and continue to prioritize public safety. This commitment also demonstrates the professional, modern, and humane nature of the Indonesian state apparatus in carrying out its duties.
The increasingly conducive security situation has had a positive impact on accelerating development in Papua. Infrastructure continues to expand, educational services are increasingly accessible to the public, and economic activity is becoming more dynamic. These conditions are crucial for realizing Papua as a developed, safe, and prosperous region. Security stability also opens greater opportunities for investment, the construction of public facilities, and improving the quality of life for people in various regions.
Amidst these efforts, the Papuan people continue to demonstrate a spirit of unity and optimism in supporting the establishment of peace. Public awareness of maintaining a safe environment is a positive force for sustainable development regional governance. The spirit of mutual cooperation and togetherness between officials, local government, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and the community is a key force in building a harmonious and progressive Papua.
Efforts to maintain security in Papua are truly part of the national commitment to providing justice and prosperity for all Indonesian people. The state continues to be present through a professional security approach and inclusive development. These steps demonstrate that Papua is not only protected from a security perspective, but also continues to be developed so that its people have a bright and hopeful future.
With increasingly strong synergy between security forces, the government, and the community, Papua has a significant opportunity to continue moving towards a peaceful, advanced, and prosperous region. The growing spirit of unity and optimism within the community is a powerful force in maintaining regional stability while accelerating development to realize Papua as a land of peace that can make Indonesia proud.
*The author is a Papuan community leader