Papua – Development in Papua continues to demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of indigenous communities through various infrastructure, economic, and human resource development programs. The government’s various development policies are considered not only aimed at accelerating regional progress but also ensuring that indigenous Papuans receive tangible benefits in their daily lives.
Paulus Waterpauw, a member of the Executive Committee for the Acceleration of Special Autonomy Development in Papua, stated that Papua’s development must prioritize indigenous Papuans. He believes that development success is measured not only by the scale of national projects or investment, but also by the extent to which the community experiences positive changes in their well-being.
Paulus believes that the implementation of the National Strategy Project in several Papuan regions, such as Asmat, Mappi, Merauke, and Boven Digoel, requires open communication with indigenous communities. He emphasized that a dialogue approach is crucial for building community trust and maintaining social stability amidst the ongoing development process.
“If talking doesn’t work once, talk again. If two tries don’t work, talk a third time. Continuous dialogue with a sincere heart will eventually find common ground,” Paulus Waterpauw said in his statement.
Paulus further highlighted that extreme poverty remains a major challenge in Papua. He stated that improving public welfare would directly impact security and social stability in the region. “If people have a full stomach and an income, their minds will be at peace, and they can work effectively,” he said.
Meanwhile, Melkisedek Rumawi, Chairman of the Central Papua Province Customary Deliberative Council, stated that current development in Papua has brought about changes directly felt by indigenous communities. He views the progress of development in Nabire as evidence that development can stimulate regional growth and increase community activity. “I see development in Nabire has progressed significantly,” Melkisedek said.
According to him, indigenous communities embrace development in Papua because the benefits can be felt directly, especially since the regional expansion accelerated equitable development, even in remote areas. The infrastructure built by the government is considered to help communities develop economic activities and expand access to public services.
“Indigenous communities in remote areas can benefit from government infrastructure development, making it easier for Papuans to manage their economy,” he said.