By: Andi Mahesa
Papua is an inseparable part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. With its vast natural wealth and rich cultural heritage, Papua holds great potential to become a prosperous and developed region. However, the development efforts in Papua have long been disrupted by acts of violence committed by the armed separatist group known as the Free Papua Movement (OPM). In this context, firm action by security forces against OPM is both necessary and deserves full support from all elements of the nation.
The heinous acts carried out by OPM not only obstruct development but also instill fear and deep suffering among civilians. They do not hesitate to attack innocent residents, target health workers and teachers, and even burn public facilities. These are clear acts of terrorism, and the state must not tolerate them under any circumstances.
Martinus Kasuay, a respected community leader in Papua, has voiced his strong support for the efforts of the security forces. He stated that the cruel actions committed by OPM are inhumane and deeply troubling for the community. As a community representative, Kasuay supports firm action by the security forces against those who perpetrate such acts of violence against civilians.
Furthermore, Martinus emphasized the importance of assertiveness from both the military (TNI) and the police (Polri) in confronting separatist groups that threaten the stability and safety of the Papuan people. He stressed that the community needs protection and that security institutions must be strengthened to provide a sense of safety. He also called for decisive action and institutional reinforcement of the TNI and Polri to ensure that the people of Papua can live in peace.
His statement reflects the heartfelt sentiments of many Papuans who have lived for too long under the shadow of OPM terror. They yearn for peace, not conflict. They seek progress, not destruction. They aspire to live equally and prosperously as part of the Indonesian nation.
The actions taken by the TNI and Polri in dealing with OPM are a form of state responsibility in protecting its citizens. These actions are carried out not only within the framework of law but also with a humane approach toward civilians. Law enforcement is directed solely at those who engage in violence and armed resistance against the state.
It is important to emphasize that firm action against OPM is not an act of repression against the Papuan people. On the contrary, it is a necessary effort to free them from prolonged fear and suffering. In many cases, it is the civilian population that suffers the most from OPM’s actions. They are unable to live normal lives, children cannot go to school, and the local economy comes to a standstill due to the chaos caused by these armed groups.
The central government has not remained idle. Numerous development initiatives continue to be pursued—from improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, to the empowerment of Indigenous communities. Yet all of these efforts can only succeed if Papua enjoys a stable and secure environment. For this reason, strengthening the security apparatus is of paramount importance.
The TNI and Polri must continue to receive moral and political support from both the central government and the broader public. They are not only protectors but also guardians of Papua’s future. With firm yet lawful and human rights–based action, the security forces can restore peace and pave the way for greater development and reconciliation.
In the global context, armed separatist movements such as the OPM are not accepted. Nearly every nation in the world rejects violent separatism as a threat to national sovereignty and stability. Indonesia has every right—and indeed the obligation—to defend its territorial integrity against such brutal threats.
From Sabang to Merauke, all Indonesians should unite in supporting the efforts of the security forces to safeguard Papua from OPM’s threats. This is not only the responsibility of the security forces, but the collective duty of the entire nation to ensure that Papua remains a peaceful and prosperous part of Indonesia.
The author is a university student living in Jakarta.
