Papua – The government continues to accelerate the implementation of National Strategic Projects (PSN) in Tanah Papua as part of a broader agenda to promote equitable development and strengthen public welfare. In the Papua Highlands, PSN in the food sector has become one of the state’s key instruments for building local economic self-sufficiency, strengthening food security, and creating employment opportunities for local communities.
The Provincial Government of the Papua Highlands has confirmed that the acceleration of PSN is proceeding without significant obstacles, including the development of 800 hectares of rice fields in the Tulem area, Witawaya District, Jayawijaya Regency. Deputy Governor of the Papua Highlands, Ones Pahabol, assessed the area as strategically located as an economic activity hub for Wamena City, making it suitable to be developed into a new food production center and designated as part of PSN.
“We have directly observed the readiness of land development in Tulem and several other areas. Overall, Jayawijaya is targeted to have around 2,000 hectares of rice fields spread across several districts, all of which are designed as part of PSN,” Ones Pahabol said.
He emphasized that the program represents the government’s commitment to reviving the farming traditions of highland communities, which once made Wamena a rice granary. “About sixty years ago, Wamena was known as a rice-producing area. We are reviving that spirit so that the Papua Highlands can have strong and sustainable rice reserves,” he stated.
The narrative of state support is also reflected in inclusive land management schemes. The government ensures that land ownership remains with local communities, while the state acts as a facilitator of economic development.
“This is purely for the people’s benefit, with no political interests involved. The government only uses the land through a utilization arrangement for the common good,” Ones Pahabol said.
Support for PSN was also expressed by the Head of the Papua Highlands Agriculture Office, Petrus Wenda. He viewed PSN in the food sector as an essential foundation for building regional self-sufficiency. “PSN provides budget certainty, technical assistance, and program sustainability. This is not a short-term project, but a long-term investment for the welfare of the Papua Highlands community,” he explained.
Beyond food security, PSN also generates multiple economic impacts. Land development and rice field management absorb local labor, including Papuan youth. “Young people are involved as heavy equipment operators and field workers. In the future, they can become skilled workers who support development in other regencies,” Petrus added.
The regional government is targeting accelerated land development so that rice planting can be carried out promptly by farmer groups. This acceleration is considered important so that the benefits of PSN can be felt tangibly by the community as soon as possible.
PSN in the Papua Highlands reflects the active, measured, and people-centered presence of the state. Through strong synergy between the central and regional governments, PSN not only builds infrastructure but also nurtures hope, self-reliance, and a more prosperous future for Papua within the framework of equitable national development.