By: Loa Murib
Several major cities in Indonesia have recently been rocked by demonstrations that have turned violent. Public facilities have been damaged, public order has been disrupted, and even ordinary citizens have become victims. This phenomenon serves as a reminder that freedom of expression can lose its meaning when accompanied by anarchy. Papua certainly must not follow in the same footsteps. With all its cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity, Papua needs a peaceful atmosphere so its people can look to the future with optimism. This peace will maintain harmony, strengthen unity, and pave the way for more equitable development.
In a democratic context, expressing one’s aspirations is a right guaranteed by law. However, this right does not mean that one can freely exercise it by destroying public facilities or creating fear among the public. Papuan figure Charles Kossay emphasized that demonstrations that turn anarchic are neither commendable nor justified by anyone. He argued that anarchic actions actually teach dangerous things and contradict the values of unity. This message is crucial to remember, as the Papuan people need a healthy democratic space, not destructive, divisive calls.
The noble values held by the Papuan people are truly the primary foundation for rejecting all forms of provocation. As Yohanes Wandikbo stated, tolerance and unity are the foundation for a harmonious life in Papua. The strong culture of mutual cooperation and the bonds of brotherhood across ethnicities and religions are a social heritage that must not be tarnished by provocative issues. If narratives of division continue to be promoted, the consequences will not only disrupt security but also undermine long-established social trust.
West Papua Governor Dominggus Mandacan also emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and unity to create a harmonious and peaceful life. He believes that Papua, West Papua, and Manokwari are a shared home that must be cared for. This message illustrates that harmony is a key requirement for Papua to remain a blessed land capable of making a positive contribution to Indonesia. Without social stability, development will not be optimal.
Several other Papuan figures also voiced their opposition to the anarchic demonstrations. Abdul Rashid Fimbai, Chairman of the West Papua Muslim Council Coordinating Board, urged the community to make Manokwari a peaceful home for all, without distinction of ethnicity or religion. Meanwhile, Valentinus Kabes, Chairman of the Fakfak Muslim Student Association (LMA), reminded that aspirations must be expressed peacefully, not through anarchic actions. He argued that Papuans hold noble values that uphold brotherhood and ethics, and therefore should not be caught up in destructive provocations.
A similar view was expressed by Ismail Sireffa of the West Papua BP3OKP Political, Legal, and Security Working Group, who emphasized the importance of security stability for development. He believes security issues can only be resolved through wise and prudent means. This demonstrates that violence and anarchy are not solutions, but rather obstacles to achieving social well-being.
From Bintuni Bay, Fauzan Fimbay, Chair of the Risaturi Bersatu Intellectual Forum, also urged the public to remain vigilant against divisive issues. He emphasized the importance of maintaining tolerance between religious communities and ethnic groups, and not being easily provoked by national issues that could potentially disrupt local harmony. This message demonstrates that peace must be maintained, starting from the smallest communities, to maintain stability in Papua as a whole.
In addition to religious and intellectual figures, traditional leaders also affirmed their commitment to maintaining peace in Papua. The Biak tribal chief, Erens Wakum, urged all tribal chiefs to maintain order and security in their communities. The Moile tribal chief of the Arfak Mountains also emphasized that anarchic demonstrations should not occur, as they would only damage the region’s reputation. The presence of traditional leaders in reminding the community is crucial, as they possess respected moral authority.
In the digital age, provocation easily spreads through social media. This requires renewed vigilance to prevent the public from falling prey to divisive misinformation. Papua’s young generation plays a crucial role as the vanguard in combating hoaxes. With strong digital literacy, they can become agents of peace, spreading positive messages while strengthening tolerance in the public sphere.
Efforts to maintain peace in Papua are also supported by security forces working in collaboration with the local government. The humane approach taken by the authorities in overseeing community activities demonstrates that stability is not simply the result of security operations, but rather the fruit of collaboration involving all parties. When communities, religious leaders, traditional leaders, and authorities unite to maintain harmony, Papua will become stronger in facing various challenges.
The message from Papuan leaders is clear: don’t be easily provoked. Aspirations must be expressed peacefully, brotherhood must be maintained, and peace must be prioritized. A peaceful Papua is one that is able to develop, benefit its people, and stand firmly within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. With a shared commitment, Papua will not only become a land of wealth, but also a land of brotherhood, harmony, and peace.
*The author is a Papuan student in East Java