By : Filep Boma )*
In an effort to accelerate equality and improve people’s welfare, the Indonesian Government demonstrated its commitment through the inauguration of the South Papua Provincial Government Facilities and Infrastructure Center Development Plan.
Vice President KH Ma’ruf Amin, at an event in Merauke Regency, underlined the importance of this development as proof of the central government’s seriousness in developing the eastern region of Indonesia, especially South Papua Province. Not only as an infrastructure step, but also as an effort to accelerate economic, social and cultural development in the region.
Equitable development is a central theme in this government’s agenda. Development in South Papua must not only be seen as a physical project, but also as an effort to create social justice and prosperity for the local community.
The Vice President emphasized that this development is a concrete manifestation of the aspirations of the people of South Papua to have a “big house” that is comfortable and prosperous for all. However, the challenges faced are not easy. The government and community must work hard so that this new house can radiate the light of prosperity, peace and justice in the land of Papua.
Vice President Ma’ruf Amin outlined several strategic steps that need to be taken by the South Papua Provincial Government to ensure development runs smoothly and achieves the expected goals.
First, development programs must be sharpened by exploiting the potential and uniqueness of the South Papua region which directly borders other countries. A comprehensive approach is needed to ensure that every aspect of development, from infrastructure to local economic empowerment, can support each other and produce a positive impact on society.
Second, the Vice President emphasized the importance of the central government area as a driving force for development in South Papua. This area must become more than just an administrative center; it must become a center of inclusive social and economic activity, a place where policies supporting interregional connectivity are designed and implemented.
Thus, the development of physical infrastructure must be in line with efforts to create green open spaces, public facilities and places that encourage community social participation.
Collaboration and synergy between various parties is also the key to the success of this development. Vice President Ma’ruf Amin asked the South Papua Provincial Government to increase cooperation with related ministries and institutions, and ensure that all stages of development preparations run well.
Active participation from all stakeholders, especially indigenous Papuans, is very important in preparing an integrated master plan, sustainable regional design, effective project management, and financing involving various sectors. In this way, the development of main facilities and infrastructure centers can be realized optimally.
It is hoped that the development of this central government area will not only act as a new administrative center, but also as a symbol of progress and modernity that still respects local wisdom.
The Vice President emphasized that this development must reflect the cultural identity of South Papua and respect the values that exist in society. This government center is expected to become “a new city” that reflects the spirit of “Papua Rising, Independent and Prosperous with Justice.”
The Governor of South Papua, Apollo Safanpo, reported that the government center will be built at KTM Salor, Ivimahad Village, Kurik District, Merauke Regency, on 152 hectares of land that has been handed over by the Merauke Regency Government.
The land acquisition and land certification process has been underway, and several physical development readiness criteria have been met, including the availability of Amdal documents and budgets from the APBN and APBD.
The design of the central government area is in the shape of a shield, reflecting the cultural symbols used by tribes in South Papua. This plan has received support from the PUPR Ministry, with several main buildings such as the governor’s office, DPRP, MRP, as well as housing and other infrastructure facilities which will be the responsibility of the central and provincial governments.
The inauguration event was marked by the laying of the first stone by Vice President Ma’ruf Amin and the signing of an inscription. Apart from government offices, the development model also shows plans for supporting facilities such as markets, museums, places of worship, food courts, polyclinics, mini stadiums and squares, which will enrich the social and economic functions of the area.
The development of South Papua must be seen as part of a broader effort to ensure that all regions in Indonesia receive equal attention in national development. With a strong commitment from the central government and full support from the local community, South Papua can become a successful example of equitable, sustainable and inclusive development.
In the end, this development is not just about infrastructure or administration, but about the hopes and future of the people of South Papua. With close cooperation between the central and regional governments, as well as the active participation of local communities, this development is expected to bring real positive changes to people’s daily lives.
Let us all work together to realize the vision of “Papua Rising, Independent and Prosperous with Justice,” making South Papua a development model that prioritizes prosperity, justice and social integrity.
)* The author is a Papuan student living in Yogyakarta
