By: Floren Simbiak
As tensions in Papua have increased, particularly over the activities of the Free Papua Movement (OPM), the Indonesian government has taken several decisive steps to address the ongoing conflict in the region.
These steps, which include law enforcement, protection of human rights, and efforts to restore calm in Papua, are an integral part of the national strategy to maintain the stability and sovereignty of the country. In this context, it is imperative for the Indonesian people to support the government’s carefully designed policies for the sake of creating peace in Papua.
Law enforcement in Papua has become a major focus following the murder of pilot Glen Malcolm Conning, a foreign citizen from New Zealand, which occurred in Alma District, Mimika Regency, Central Papua in early August 2024.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, both nationally and internationally. The Indonesian government, through the Indonesian National Police (Polri) and the Papua National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM), moved quickly to arrest the perpetrators and ensure that the case is handled in accordance with applicable legal mechanisms.
Swift and transparent law enforcement measures are essential in such a situation. The Head of the Papua National Human Rights Commission, Frits Ramandey, emphasized the importance of this effort to ensure that justice is served and the perpetrators of the murder can be brought to justice immediately.
In addition, fair law enforcement is also an important factor in maintaining good diplomatic relations between Indonesia and other countries, especially with New Zealand as the country of origin of the victim.
The Indonesian government is not only focused on the law enforcement aspect, but also pays serious attention to the psychological impact caused by this conflict. Victim witnesses, including health workers, teachers, and civilians who were around the location of the incident, need support to restore their psychological condition.
Therefore, the government through Komnas HAM and other related agencies has encouraged the implementation of a “trauma healing” program to help victims overcome the trauma they experienced.
In an effort to maintain security and support the law enforcement process in Papua, the government also invites all parties to work together. Security in Papua is not only the responsibility of the security forces, but also the community as a whole. By working together, the community and government can jointly create a safe and conducive environment for all Papuans.
In addition to law enforcement, the government must also face major challenges from the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM), the military wing of the OPM, which continues to carry out attacks on security forces and threatens stability in the region.
The latest attack that occurred in Intan Jaya Regency in late August 2024 marked a serious escalation of this conflict. TPNPB-OPM, led by Kinogo Battalion Commander, Major Keny Tipagau, attacked TNI/Polri troops in Pogapa Village, Homeo District.
The attack shows that OPM is not only targeting security forces, but also trying to disrupt the democratic process in Papua. This threat shows that OPM does not hesitate to use violence to achieve its political goals, even if it means sacrificing the stability and welfare of the Papuan people.
In the face of this situation, the Indonesian government has taken strategic steps to ensure that the Pilkada can take place safely and peacefully. Extra security has been deployed in areas considered prone to conflict, and diplomatic efforts with member countries of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) are also being carried out to pressure the OPM and urge an investigation into human rights violations in West Papua.
However, it is important to remember that the conflict in Papua is not just a security issue. It is also an issue related to human rights, economic development, and social integration. The Indonesian government has recognized the importance of a holistic approach to dealing with the Papuan problem, which includes efforts to improve economic welfare and access to basic services for the Papuan people.
Development programs, such as improving infrastructure and access to education, continue to be encouraged to ensure that Papuans can enjoy the same benefits as other Indonesian citizens.
It is important for the community to support the government’s efforts in dealing with the conflict in Papua, including understanding the complexity of the problem. This conflict is not something that can be resolved quickly or simply, but requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach.
In facing the challenges from the OPM, the government has shown its firmness and commitment to maintaining the country’s sovereignty and protecting human rights. The firm policy taken by the government to handle the conflict in Papua is the right step in maintaining the integrity of Indonesia’s territory and creating safe and peaceful conditions for all Papuans.
It is imperative for all of us to continue to support the government’s carefully designed policies in dealing with the conflict in Papua. By uniting and working together, we can help create peace in Papua and ensure that all Indonesian citizens, without exception, can live in security and prosperity.
*) Papuan Yapis Students