By: Loa Murib
Papua’s development and prosperity are inseparable from stable and peaceful security conditions. Papua, with all its natural wealth and cultural diversity, requires a conducive environment to manage its full potential for the benefit of the wider community. In this regard, collaboration between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and the community is a key pillar in maintaining peace and strengthening the foundation of a prosperous and peaceful Papua.
The regional government continues to affirm its trust in the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) as guardians of security in Papua. South Papua Governor Apolo Safanpo emphasized that public order and security rest entirely with the authorities. He emphasized that the role of security forces cannot be replaced, but that the community is also required to play an active role in protecting their environment. He stated that the public should not take action alone when legal violations occur, but should instead hand over the matter to the authorities. This affirmation demonstrates the importance of synergy between the community and the authorities in building an orderly social order.
Community leaders also expressed similar views. Nelvis K. Manobi, Chairman of the AMPI Regional Leadership Council (DPD) for Jayapura Regency and Deputy Chairman of the AMPI Regional Leadership Council for Papua Province, assessed that the success of the authorities through the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force in cracking down on the OPM is clear evidence of the state’s commitment to protecting the Papuan people. However, he also emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved with the active participation of the community. He stated that maintaining security is not solely the responsibility of the authorities, but a shared responsibility, including for young people, who are expected to serve as role models in creating social harmony.
This togetherness is also reflected in the daily activities of officers in the field. The Tolikara Police, for example, prioritize a humanistic approach through routine patrols that serve not only as surveillance but also as a means of establishing communication with the community. Police personnel greet residents, engage in dialogue, and even convey messages of public order and security directly. Tolikara Police Chief, Commissioner Roberth Hitipeuw, emphasized that the presence of officers among the community is expected to provide a sense of security and strengthen public trust in the National Police. In this way, the National Police demonstrate that they are present not only as law enforcers but also as partners with the community in maintaining a conducive environment.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has also implemented similar initiatives through Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan, which operates in Intan Jaya, Central Papua. The soldiers demonstrate that their role extends beyond guarding the border, but also fosters a sense of community. Simple social interactions, such as having lunch with residents in Mamba Village, foster meaningful camaraderie. These moments of togetherness not only create a sense of security but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that are fundamental to the realization of a peaceful and prosperous Papua.
Public appreciation for these measures further emphasizes that a persuasive and humane approach is key to maintaining a conducive environment in Papua. Community leader Jhon Sani, who has experienced the TNI’s presence in his community, expressed his gratitude for the officers’ attention, not only in security contexts but also in daily social life. This demonstrates that public trust grows when officers are present with a friendly, caring demeanor and prioritize the values of brotherhood.
A prosperous and peaceful Papua is a shared goal that requires the contribution of all parties. The role of local governments in supporting authorities, the participation of community leaders in building collective awareness, and the enthusiasm of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in engaging with the community are mutually supportive pillars. Without such synergy, efforts to create sustainable security will be difficult to achieve.
Furthermore, this togetherness also serves as an affirmation that stability in Papua is not solely a military or police matter, but part of the Papuan people’s long journey toward prosperity. In a peaceful atmosphere, development can proceed unhindered, the local economy can thrive, and the younger generation can grow with optimism. Conversely, conflict and chaos will only hinder every step toward a brighter future.
Therefore, going forward, strengthened collaboration between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), local governments, community leaders, and Papuan youth is essential. A collective awareness that security is a shared responsibility must continue to be fostered in every aspect of life. Every small step, from protecting neighborhoods to actively supporting authorities in countering provocations by armed groups, is a valuable contribution to building a peaceful Papua.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) have demonstrated a commitment that focuses not only on defense but also on social approaches that foster closeness. The local government supports this through policies and coordination, while community leaders and Papuan youth foster a sense of collective responsibility. All these elements form a solid pillar supporting the ideals of a prosperous and peaceful Papua.
With closer togetherness, Papua can serve as a concrete example of how harmony between security forces and the community can foster sustainable peace. Security is not merely the absence of conflict, but also the presence of trust, a sense of belonging, and a spirit of brotherhood that transcends differences. From the land of Papua, this message resonates: peace is born from togetherness, and togetherness is the path to true prosperity.
*The author is a Papuan student in East Java
