WEST PAPUA – Maintaining security and peace in Papua is a shared responsibility of all community elements. Amid a dynamic national situation, various Papuan leaders have urged the public not to be easily provoked by calls for anarchic demonstrations that could harm themselves and the region.
Abdul Rashid Fimbai, General Chairperson of the Coordinating Board of the Papua Muslim Assembly in West Papua Province, emphasized the importance of building unity despite differences. “Let’s make Manokwari a shared home that is safe, peaceful, and prosperous for all its people, regardless of ethnic, religious, or other backgrounds,” he said. He added, “Let us maintain Manokwari as a big home where everyone is family and deserves protection to live safely and peacefully.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by Valentinus Kabes, Chairperson of the LMA Fakfak Regency, who urged the public not to fall into anarchic actions. “Express aspirations peacefully, avoid anarchic acts, and always comply with applicable laws. This is important so that we all avoid things that can harm ourselves or others,” he said. Valentinus also expressed his confidence that Papuan society holds noble values. “I am certain that as good citizens with culture and ethics, we will not be provoked. Let us nurture brotherhood, strengthen ties, and bring about peace.”
Meanwhile, Ismail Sireffa, a member of the Political, Legal, and Security Working Group of BP3OKP West Papua, stressed the importance of stability for development. “Let us maintain security stability so that this region remains stable. But let us also work together to resolve security issues wisely and prudently in order to achieve development goals in the area,” he stated.
From Teluk Bintuni, Fauzan Fimbay, Chairperson of the United Risaturi Intellectual Forum, also called on the community to remain vigilant against divisive issues. “I urge all residents of Teluk Bintuni to maintain tolerance among religious groups and ethnicities. We must not be easily provoked by national issues, but rather join hands to safeguard security in the region,” he emphasized.
Customary leaders also conveyed similar views. Biak Tribal Chief Erens Wakum reminded, “I appeal to all Papuan and Nusantara tribal chiefs to help maintain a peaceful, orderly, and safe community.” The Chief of the Moile tribe from the Arfak Mountains added, “I call on the community to maintain order and security. Anarchic demonstrations are unacceptable so that the good name of the regency is preserved.”
The collective call from Papuan leaders reflects a strong commitment to maintain peace and unity. Papua needs stability, not unrest. Only by creating harmony and security can development proceed and the welfare of the community be increasingly achieved.