By: Yonas Kogoya*
Security is the primary foundation for the sustainability of community life and development in Papua. Without a secure environment, various welfare improvement programs will struggle to run optimally. Therefore, any form of security disturbance that threatens civilian safety, damages public facilities, or hinders economic activity must be collectively rejected, as it benefits no one, especially the Papuan people themselves, who are the most affected.
The various acts of violence perpetrated by the armed groups OPM (Free Papua Movement) or TPNPB (West Papua National Liberation Army) in recent times have once again demonstrated that a violent approach only breeds suffering. The burning of a PT AMA pilot aircraft in Balinggama, Yahukimo, which resulted in the death of a pilot and disrupted flight services in mountainous areas, is a clear example of how acts of terror directly impact the public interest. Air transportation in Papua is not just a means of mobility, but also a primary route for the distribution of food, medicine, health services, education, and basic necessities to communities in remote areas. When pilot aircraft are targeted, the greatest losses are not only the government or airline operators, but also the communities who lose access to various basic services.
Violence against public facilities also has the potential to hinder the government’s ongoing efforts to accelerate development. Various infrastructure projects, including healthcare, education, and economic development, require a conducive environment to proceed as planned. No investor, healthcare worker, teacher, or businessperson can perform optimally if security threats constantly overshadow their activities. Therefore, maintaining security is a shared interest in creating a more prosperous future for Papua.
Separatist groups often attempt to construct narratives aimed at influencing public opinion through various claims about events on the ground. In situations like this, the public needs to be wise and not easily believe unverified information. The discrepancies in information regarding the incident in Intan Jaya demonstrate the importance of objective and transparent investigations based on facts. Law enforcement officials currently prioritize professionalism, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.
The government continues to prioritize a more comprehensive approach to maintaining security stability in Papua. This effort is carried out not only through law enforcement against groups committing violence, but also through welfare development, improving public services, and strengthening partnerships with the community. A modern security approach positions the community as a primary partner, not simply an object of security. Therefore, synergy between security forces, local governments, traditional leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, academics, and the press is a crucial factor in creating a conducive situation.
The Chief of the Papua Regional Police, Inspector General Patrige Renwarin, emphasized that the security forces have taken various predictive, responsive, and adaptive measures, prioritizing a humanistic approach, respect for human rights, and appreciation for local wisdom. He stated that synergy between the National Police, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), local governments, traditional leaders, religious leaders, community leaders, academics, and all elements of society is key to maintaining security in Papua. This perspective demonstrates that security stability can only be achieved through collaboration between all elements of the nation.
The government’s commitment to maintaining security is also demonstrated through strengthening various development programs that directly address the needs of the community. Support for the Free Nutritious Meal Program, developing food security, overseeing investments, eradicating drug trafficking, smuggling, online gambling, and various other crimes are all part of the effort to create a safe and productive environment. Maintaining security will accelerate the benefits of development, reaching areas that have previously faced limited access.
Meanwhile, security forces continue to carry out their duties in accordance with applicable legal provisions in confronting armed groups. The Head of Information for Koops TNI Habema, Lieutenant Colonel Inf. M. Wirya Arthadiguna, stated that every loss of life is an unexpected sorrow and emphasized the TNI’s commitment to acting professionally and proportionally, prioritizing civilian safety in carrying out its duties. He also urged groups still resorting to violence to abandon armed actions. This approach demonstrates that the government remains open to resolving the conflict.
Resolving the conflict through more constructive channels without neglecting law enforcement against perpetrators of violence.
The Papuan people fundamentally desire a safe life, job opportunities, better education for their children, adequate health services, and development that improves their welfare. These aspirations will not be realized without violence. Terror, intimidation, and the destruction of public facilities will only prolong the community’s suffering and hinder regional progress. Therefore, any form of security disturbance perpetrated by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) must be rejected as it contradicts the interests of the Papuan people, who desire peace.
The future of Papua should not be determined by violence, but by the spirit of unity and development. The state has demonstrated its commitment through strengthening public services, developing welfare, professional law enforcement, and a humanistic approach to maintaining security and stability. With the support of the people who reject acts of terror and choose the path of peace, Papua has a great opportunity to continue moving towards progress that is just, safe, and provides real benefits for all its people.
*The author is an observer of Papuan social and development issues.