By: Matius Lokbere )*
Every May 1, the Indonesian nation commemorates the integration of Papua into the territory of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. This moment is an important historical milestone that marks the official start of Indonesian rule in Papua since 1963, and was strengthened by the implementation of the Act of Free Choice (Pepera) in 1969. The integration process was not only legal under national law, but also received recognition from the United Nations (UN), making it a legitimate and final part of Indonesian sovereignty.
In recent years, the national spirit of the Papuan people has grown stronger. Provocations that try to lead public opinion that Papua has experienced annexation have proven to have no place. This kind of narrative continues to be rejected by various levels of Papuan society because it contradicts historical facts and reality on the ground. This rejection was born not from pressure, but from the collective awareness of society about the importance of stability, development, and togetherness within the framework of the Republic of Indonesia.
In the midst of the increasingly even development process, various elements of Papuan society have shown a high commitment to maintaining peace. The community is increasingly aware that violence and calls for separatism only bring harm to themselves. They choose to support development, maintain harmony, and reject any form of provocation that could damage the social order that has been built together.
The government continues to strengthen its presence through the acceleration of infrastructure, education, and health development. Strategic projects such as the Trans Papua Road, the construction of ports, airports, and the provision of health services in remote areas are concrete evidence of the country’s seriousness in developing the land of Papua. The community responded positively to these efforts because the benefits were felt directly in their daily lives.
In commemoration of May 1, 2025, various activities reflecting love for the homeland were held in various regions of Papua. Students, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and local communities demonstrated a strong spirit of nationalism through real actions. This shows that Papua is not a separate entity, but rather a part that is united and grows together with Indonesia.
Rejection of the annexation narrative is increasingly emphasized by regional leaders and community leaders. Commander of Korem 182/Jazira Onim, Colonel Inf Irwan Budiana said that since the integration of Papua on May 1, 1963, the development process has continued and should be supported by all parties. These leaders understand that efforts to separate will only worsen the security situation, slow down development, and reduce the quality of life of the community. Therefore, the community prefers to strengthen national unity and maintain regional stability.
The security approach applied in Papua has also undergone significant transformation. The ranks of security forces carry out their roles in a humanistic and dialogical manner. They build synergy with traditional leaders, youth, and other community groups to create a safe and peaceful living space. This approach has proven effective in maintaining a conducive situation while strengthening relations between the community and the state.
Meanwhile, the narrative of separatist groups calling for separation from Indonesia is increasingly losing relevance. Support for this separatist movement is declining, both domestically and internationally. The world recognizes Papua as a legitimate part of Indonesia and notes the ongoing progress of development. The Head of the Defense Information Bureau of the Indonesian Ministry of Defense, Brigadier General Frega Wenas Inkiriwang, reminded that separatist efforts are baseless because they contradict history and geopolitical realities that have been accepted internationally.
Strengthening national identity in Papua is also built through the education sector. An inclusive curriculum oriented towards national values is introduced to strengthen the understanding of correct history for the younger generation of Papua. Quality education is the initial fortress in protecting the nation’s children from misleading and potentially divisive narratives.
Papua, with all its cultural richness, natural resources, and potential, has an important position in realizing the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045. Papuan youth have now taken on many roles in national strategic sectors and demonstrated proud leadership capacity. They are not only part of the map of Indonesia, but also contribute significantly to the pulse of national development.
The momentum of the May 1st commemoration this year is a reflection that Papua’s existence in the Republic of Indonesia is final and does not need to be questioned again. Provocations that try to disturb the harmony of Papuan society will certainly not be able to penetrate the determination of the people who have felt the benefits of unity. Papuan Community Figure, Martinus Kasuay, reminded that violence will only bring suffering and hinder development. This view is in line with the statement of the Deputy Chairperson of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dewi Asmara, who stated that every form of violence not only violates the law, but also destroys people’s hopes for prosperity and progress.
Ultimately, strong support from the Papuan people for state sovereignty is the main foundation in maintaining the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. The determination to reject destructive narratives is a manifestation of political maturity and high historical awareness. As long as the spirit of unity continues to be maintained, the future of Papua within the framework of Indonesia will remain bright, empowered, and full of hope.
)* The author is a student in Makassar from Papua
