PAPUA – Various community leaders in Papua have called for the importance of maintaining security, unity, and social harmony during the commemoration of World Human Rights Day, which falls on December 10. The calls came from people from Manokwari to Jayapura, demonstrating a shared commitment to ensuring that the commemoration takes place peacefully and positively impacts the community.
In Manokwari, Byak youth leader Rommyr Arwam emphasized that Human Rights Day should be understood as a moment of moral reflection for all West Papuans. He emphasized that this commemoration is not merely a ceremonial event, but a reminder that human dignity, justice, and equality must be the foundation of social life.
“The commemoration of Human Rights Day in Manokwari needs to be understood as a shared commitment to strengthening unity and social harmony,” he said.
Arwam also commended the regional government and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (Polri) for maintaining security and stability, allowing the public to carry out their activities safely. He stated that security is part of fulfilling citizens’ basic rights to live in peace and prosperity.
He also reminded the public not to be influenced by provocation and false information that could potentially divide unity. Arwam emphasized that his team will continue to conduct outreach with traditional leaders, youth, and local communities to maintain order during the Human Rights Day commemoration series.
A similar appeal was made by the Chairman of the Sentani United Prosperity Association (ASBS) in Jayapura Regency, Jhon Maurits Suebu. He emphasized the importance of public vigilance against provocations by certain groups seeking to exploit Human Rights Day to disrupt security, especially in the run-up to Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
“Let’s participate in maintaining public order and security, build solidarity with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and joyfully prepare for Christmas and New Year,” he said in an official message. He emphasized the importance of the public responding wisely to all information to avoid being easily provoked.
Meanwhile, Fran Reynould Thejo, Chairman of the Papuan Youth Presidium for the Tabi Region, urged all elements of society in Jayapura City to use Human Rights Day as a space for collective reflection. He believed this commemoration should be celebrated with a peaceful heart, especially amidst the joyful atmosphere of Christmas and New Year 2026.
“We support the TNI and Polri in maintaining public order and security. Security is a shared responsibility,” he stressed.
This call reflects the Papuan people’s determination to make the commemoration of World Human Rights Day a manifestation of strengthening togetherness, maintaining regional stability, and ensuring that development in the Land of Papua runs smoothly and sustainably.