By: Abner Wanggai )*
The issue of the doubtful figure of 61 Papuan and West Papuan figures has become a polemic in itself. Many people regretted this, but others expressed support for holding a meeting with the President some time ago which resulted in tangible benefits for Papua.
Previously, Jokowi had invited at least 61 Papuan and West Papuan figures to the State Palace. They are coordinated and facilitated by BIN. The real information was, the President invited 63 figures but two people were declared unable to attend due to illness. The selection of these figures is done carefully, and chosen by considering all aspects. Among them, namely, regional representation, religion, ethnicity, customs and of course the most important is its influence in the Papuan community.
These figures came from all parts of Papua and West Papua. Which has been recognized for his character. So the assumption that this election seems careless is wrong. They are suspected not to be careless. It is undeniable that there are some members who do not hold formal positions in government. However, the head of the delegation is a Papuan DPRD.
The figure of the 61 invited figures was reflected in his dialogue with President Jokowi. They filed 9 demands, but they are suspected to be in the interests of the people of Papua. They did not submit requests for the interests of groups, religions, tribes, and others. Among the 9 requests, some were directly received by the President. Namely, the construction of the presidential palace in Papua (Jayapura). Other requests also exist however, must be reviewed and through the process first.
One of them is, such as regional expansion and employment problems for Papuans and West Papuans so they can work in state-owned or private institutions. Related to the construction of the presidential palace, the chairman of the DPRD granted 10 hectares of land to facilitate the development. Another request is for Papuan children to have the opportunity to occupy Echelon I and II positions outside Papua. This according to the President will also be considered in depth. The President said he would prioritize Papuan children to occupy these positions on the condition that they were not violating the rules.
Another strong reflection is evident from those who were present at the Palace, not only that they requested but also applied in reverse. Namely giving, in relation to the granting of 10 hectares of land for free. Which if the value is estimated to reach more than 1 billion. The indication is, they are willing to give for the common good, the motherland. There also does not appear to be an individual interest when submitting a request. They used the moment to meet the president for mutual benefit, namely the progress of Papua.
Although the title “Persokohan” is interpreted as an important factor. However, it is not certain that someone who does not occupy this position deserves to be underestimated. Although not officials, in fact their existence is also recognized by the influence of the people of Papua. They are all invited to the same forum and aim to voice the opinions or requests mentioned above. Some of the requests submitted were directly approved, but some also had to go through an assessment process. This as a form of government is also not rash in making decisions.
Another result of their request is that two new Provinces will emerge and the construction of the Presidential palace in the next few years. Another effort of government attention is that one thousand native Papuan youth will become BUMN employees. Based on this, of course it can be concluded that those present at the meeting were Papuan leaders who brought tangible benefits to the welfare of Papua. Not a figure who divides the nation, let alone a person who is doubtful about his role.
Apart from the polemic of the pros and cons of this event, it is better to always examine it deeper before deciding to judge someone who is not competent. Given, the role of this figure in the community has also been recognized. Another thing that affects is, the results of the meeting if judging in terms of welfare, it is correct to go there, right? Then what else should be at issue? Wouldn’t it be better for us as good citizens to monitor the progress of the results of this meeting. The indication is, that the people of Papua get the same welfare rights in various aspects without exception.
)* The writer is a Papuan student, living in Yogyakarta