Countering OPM Narrative, Facts and History Prove Papua is an Integral Part of the Republic of Indonesia
By: Obaja Wame
Amidst the various challenges faced by this nation, one of the most significant threats is the attempt by the Free Papua Movement (OPM) to separate Papua from the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
In the face of provocative narratives and barbaric actions carried out by the OPM, it is important for all Indonesian people, especially the Papuan people, to unite in defending the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia.
History and facts clearly show that Papua is an inseparable part of Indonesia, and any attempt to divide this nation must be firmly rejected. OPM has long been known as a group that not only uses violent means to achieve its goals, but also often spreads misleading propaganda.
They try to manipulate history, sow hatred, and divide the unity of the nation with false narratives that aim to justify their actions. Therefore, vigilance from all elements of society is the key to maintaining peace in the Land of Papua and ensuring that Indonesia remains intact.
Papua has been part of Indonesia since the signing of the New York Agreement in 1962, which was then followed by the Act of Free Choice (Pepera) in 1969. Through this internationally recognized process, Papua legally became part of Indonesia.
However, the OPM continues to try to deny this fact, using provocative tactics to create instability and chaos in the region.
One way OPM carries out their agenda is through the spread of provocative narratives in various media, including social media. They try to instill distrust among the Papuan people towards the government, in the hope of mobilizing support for their separatist agenda.
Efforts like this must of course be watched out for by all Indonesian people, especially the Papuan people, so as not to fall into the propaganda trap created by the OPM.
It is undeniable that the violent actions carried out by the OPM have caused deep suffering for the Papuan people. Attacks on civilians, murders, and kidnappings are some of the barbaric acts they have committed.
All this is done in the name of “freedom,” but the reality is that these actions only create fear and suffering for the people they are supposed to protect.
The Papuan people, known as a peace-loving society, actually greatly appreciate a peaceful and stable life under the auspices of the Republic of Indonesia. However, the narratives spread by the OPM seek to destroy this harmony, with the aim of dividing and weakening the bonds between the Papuan people and the Indonesian government.
That is why it is important for the Papuan people to remain vigilant and not be easily influenced by the propaganda spread by this separatist group.
Papuan traditional figures, such as Herman Yoku, have consistently reminded the public not to be provoked by the OPM. Herman Yoku firmly condemned all forms of provocation carried out by the separatist group and called on all Papuans to remain united in maintaining peace in Bumi Cenderawasih.
This call shows how important the role of community leaders is in maintaining peace and unity in Papua.
In addition to traditional figures, security forces also have an important role in maintaining stability in Papua. The Head of Information for the XVII/Cenderawasih Military Regional Command (Kapendam), Lieutenant Colonel of Infantry Candra Kurniawan, emphasized that the OPM often spreads provocative issues aimed at disrupting development in Papua.
Therefore, it is important for the community to remain calm and not be affected by the provocation. Vigilance and cooperation between the community and security forces are key to maintaining a conducive situation, so that development in Papua can run smoothly.
The success of development in Papua does not only depend on security, but also on community support for a conducive investment climate. Ali Kabiay, a young Papuan figure, emphasized the importance of maintaining unity and oneness in order to create sustainable peace.
This peace will pave the way for investment to come in which will in turn drive economic development in the region.
Investments coming into Papua will bring great benefits to the local community, including increased employment, improved quality of life, and better infrastructure development. However, all of this can only be realized if Papua is safe and peaceful.
Therefore, maintaining security and order in Papua is a shared responsibility that must be borne by all elements of society.
It is undeniable that security is the foundation for all forms of development. Without security, there can be no sustainable economic, educational or infrastructural progress. When peace is disturbed, all sectors of life will be affected, from decreased purchasing power to halted development.
In facing the challenges coming from OPM, it is important for all of us not to fall into the trap of the provocative narratives they spread. We must remain vigilant and united in maintaining the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia.
History and facts have proven that Papua is an integral part of Indonesia, and attempts to separate it will only bring destruction and suffering to the Papuan people themselves.
Let us counter the OPM narrative with clear facts and history, and with a strong spirit of unity. Papua is part of the Republic of Indonesia, and together we will maintain peace and progress in the Land of Cenderawasih.
*) Student of Social and Political Sciences, Yapis University, Papua
