The government, together with the Papuan indigenous people, has attempted to create synergy in sustainable development that respects traditional rights and pays attention to the welfare of local communities. These efforts are reflected in various development policies and programs initiated by the central and regional governments, as well as the active participation of indigenous communities in planning and implementing development. This collaboration is important to ensure sustainable and inclusive development, as well as safeguarding local wisdom and the rights of indigenous communities.
At a meeting with the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG), Chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, emphasized the importance of solidarity and brotherhood between Indonesia and countries in the Pacific region, including the Melanesian community. Indonesia, as an MSG Associate Member, is committed to supporting the ‘Pacific Elevation’ vision which aims to increase partnerships with Pacific countries. In this case, development in Papua is one of the main issues discussed, considering the special attention of MSG countries to this region.
Puan Maharani emphasized that the Indonesian government has prioritized development in Papua, with a focus on improving infrastructure and community welfare. Thousands of kilometers of highways, hundreds of schools, airports and ports have been built, as well as expanding electricity access to remote areas. This effort not only aims to increase the Human Development Index, but also reduce poverty levels in Papua. In the political field, the DPR RI has encouraged strengthening political institutions, democracy, and the implementation of Special Autonomy for Papua. It is hoped that this will respect the rights and dignity of Indigenous Papuans, including encouraging them to become leaders in their own land.
The government has made various efforts to increase development in Papua, including the construction of infrastructure such as roads, airports, ports, as well as education and health facilities. Puan said that this development had a positive impact on increasing the Human Development Index (HDI) and reducing poverty levels in Papua. Apart from that, the government has also implemented the Papua Special Autonomy (Otsus) policy, which gives regions the authority to regulate and manage government affairs independently. One of the important implementations of Special Autonomy is the formation of the Papuan People’s Council (MRP), which functions as an institution representing indigenous Papuans.
Not only the central government, regional governments also play an active role in involving indigenous communities in the planning and development process. For example, the Southwest Papua Provincial Government launched the “Empowered Papua” program, which aims to involve indigenous communities in regional development planning. This program includes development planning meetings (Musrenbang) for indigenous areas, which enable indigenous communities to convey their aspirations and needs directly to the government.
Fredrik Sagisolo, Chair of the Knasaimos Indigenous Community Institution (LMA), said that involving indigenous communities in development planning is a great blessing, because it gives them the opportunity to actively participate in determining the direction of development in their region. This shows that the government is increasingly aware of the important role of indigenous peoples in the sustainable development of Papua.
The central government, through President Joko Widodo’s visit, also demonstrated its commitment to Papua’s development. President Joko Widodo’s visit to Papua also received a positive response from the public. Rev. Iker Rudy Tabuni, Regional Chair of the Evangelical Church in Indonesian Villages (GIDI) North Coast, assessed that the visit was not only ceremonial, but also had a real impact on improving infrastructure and increasing the welfare of the Papuan people. Tabuni hopes that the development programs that have been running in Papua can be continued and improved by the next government.
Synergy between the government and the Papuan indigenous people is the key to realizing sustainable development in this region. The Indonesian government, through various policies and programs, has demonstrated its commitment to improving socio-economic conditions and increasing the welfare of the Papuan people. On the other hand, indigenous communities, through their active participation in the planning and monitoring process, also play an important role in ensuring that development is carried out in accordance with their needs and aspirations.
In a global context, Indonesia’s involvement in the MSG also provides an opportunity to strengthen the country’s position in the Pacific region. By promoting inclusive development in Papua, Indonesia can demonstrate its commitment to regional peace and stability. This is also an opportunity for Indonesia to act as a driving force for regional cooperation, especially in facing global challenges such as climate change and geopolitical tensions.
Going forward, it is important for governments and indigenous communities to continue to work together and maintain constructive dialogue. This is not only to ensure the sustainability of ongoing development, but also to overcome new challenges that may arise in the future. In this way, Papua can develop sustainably, respecting traditional rights, and improving the quality of life of its people as a whole.
Inclusive and sustainable development of Papua requires joint commitment from all parties. Central and regional governments must continue to collaborate with indigenous communities, ensuring that every development step prioritizes the welfare of local communities. In this way, Papua can become a successful example of harmonious development between modernization and preservation of local culture, and become an integral part of Indonesia’s progress in the future.