Security in Papua is a complex issue involving a number of factors, including the history of colonialism, political, economic, social tensions and cultural diversity. Following up on this, President Jokowi’s government continues to be committed to bringing justice and prosperity to Papua through various policy instruments that benefit the community. These include Special Autonomy (Otsus), massive infrastructure development, and regional expansion which have been proven to have a very positive impact on economic growth and the ease of people accessing various facilities.
Papua has great potential in natural resources and cultural riches which will be of added value in attracting a number of investments. Therefore, the community needs to monitor and support various government policies for the progress and welfare of Papua as a manifestation of the presence of the state on the Earth of Cenderawasih. However, this great potential is hampered by various movements of the Free Papua Organization (OPM) which have often caused chaos in the land of Cenderawasih.
The existence of the OPM has created prolonged tension in the Papua region. They often carry out attacks on security forces and important infrastructure which hinders Papua’s accessibility and economic growth. However, the joint TNI-Polri apparatus has taken firm steps against OPMPapua.
The separatists who are members of the OPM deserve firm action from the security forces because they continue to carry out acts of terror indiscriminately to attack and injure anyone and even kill civilians, even if they are children. The shooting incident by the separatist gang is one of the many pieces of evidence that they are indeed a very cruel and brutal group of people.
Papuan traditional leader, Herman Albert Yoku, said that firm action against separatist groups would create security stability in Papua. He invited the Papuan people not to be provoked by OPM’s actions and stated the importance of unity and cooperation to overcome common threats. He emphasized that the rejection of the OPM was a reflection of the Papuan people’s determination to achieve a better future.
Resolving the conflict in Papua is not only the responsibility of the security forces, but also the government and all levels of society. Through active participation, communities can play a role in fighting terrorism and ensuring the security of their region. Firm steps and embracing efforts must be carried out simultaneously to create a safe and peaceful environment for all Papuan people.
The government also needs to improve coordination with the provincial and local governments who have direct contact with the community. So that all negative propaganda and provocations spread by OPM can be suppressed and their impact minimized.
Close cooperation between various institutions and related agencies will enable more efficient use of resources. By sharing information, intelligence, and other resources, governments can avoid overlap in OPM enforcement efforts and ensure that all aspects of this threat are addressed holistically.
The General Chairperson (Ketum) of the Papuan Indigenous Youth, Yan Christian Arebo, said that firm action against the OPM is an urgent necessity considering the disturbing impact they have had on the Papuan people. Their brutal actions have caused loss of life and fear among civilians. He feels that so far Papua in the era of President Jokowi has experienced significant development in various sectors. Infrastructure development, health services, education and the economy have become the focus of the Indonesian government in Papua.
This step not only aims to improve the welfare of the Papuan population but also strengthens the integration of this region into the unity of the state. Meanwhile, Papua’s status as part of the Republic of Indonesia itself is a fixed price that can no longer be negotiated. Therefore, the independence of Papua demanded by separatist groups in their various actions is certainly unacceptable and must be dealt with firmly by security forces.
Through development approaches, dialogue, special autonomy, economic development, security and diplomacy, the government seeks to provide comprehensive solutions to the challenges it faces. With these continuous efforts, it is hoped that Papua will remain an inseparable part of Indonesia, while providing justice, prosperity and equal participation to the community.
Papua, as an integral part of Indonesia, has become the center of attention both at the national and international level because several separatist groups are trying to separate themselves. Despite this, the Indonesian government has continued to make maximum efforts to keep Papua as an inseparable part of Indonesia. Therefore, the serious commitment of the Indonesian government regarding advancing Papua is proof that this easternmost region is a identity and identity that enriches the nation’s diversity.
Papua has become an inseparable part of Indonesia, both de jure and de facto . Through development and mutual understanding, as well as sustainable development in Papua is the key to ensuring justice and prosperity for all Indonesian people, including our brothers and sisters in Papua.
Papua is not just a region far away at the eastern tip of Indonesia, but also an identity that enriches the nation. Cultural diversity, unique nature and abundant natural resource potential make Papua an integral part of Indonesia. Papua is not only part of the map, but also part of our identity as an Indonesian nation.