By: Maria Mambay
The government’s efforts to maintain public order and security in Papua are an integral part of the national mission to protect the entire Indonesian people and all of the nation’s territory. Papua is not merely a geographic region in Indonesia’s easternmost corner; it is an inseparable part of the nation’s identity and sovereignty. Therefore, any threat to national unity—whether physical or ideological—must be met with firm, measured, and just policy responses.
One of the persistent threats over the past few decades is the separatist movement championed by certain groups such as the Free Papua Organization (OPM). The narrative of secession they promote, as emphasized by Head of the Defense Information Bureau of the Ministry of Defense, Brigadier General TNI Frega Wenas Inkiriwang, is unacceptable and contradicts the spirit of nationalism. According to him, such efforts are not only unconstitutional but also risk provoking social conflict and unrest.
It is important to note that separatist narratives do not reflect the will of the people in Papua. Rather, these movements are largely driven by narrow interests of certain groups seeking to exploit social inequalities and identity issues for personal gain. In reality, most Papuans choose to contribute to national development and benefit from the state’s presence. The inclusion of indigenous Papuans in the national cabinet is clear proof that the state is present and provides opportunities for wide public participation.
On the other hand, the government recognizes that security cannot be achieved solely through military approaches. Therefore, a multidimensional strategy is employed, involving economic development, community empowerment, and dialogue-based approaches emphasizing reconciliation and justice. Programs like Papua’s food self-sufficiency initiative—executed through collaboration between the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Agriculture—are concrete examples of development-driven approaches to stability.
Community involvement in maintaining public order and security (kamtibmas) is also key to fostering peace. Judson Ferdinandus Waprak, Chair of the West Papua People’s Assembly (MRP), stated that the current situation in West Papua is relatively safe and conducive. The public has demonstrated maturity by not being easily provoked by narratives that deviate from national unity. This shows that collaborative approaches between the government and the people have yielded positive results in maintaining stability.
Decisive actions have also been taken by regional governments against movements threatening national sovereignty, such as the unilateral claims of the group calling itself the Federal Republic of West Papua (NFRPB). In a closed-door meeting led by Southwest Papua Governor Elisa Kambu and attended by regional leadership (Forkopimda), it was resolved that all unconstitutional activities would be addressed firmly. The provincial government made it clear that there is no room for separatist movements in Southwest Papua, and any actions deviating from the constitution will be handled legally.
Legal enforcement against treasonous acts was also reinforced by Deputy Chief of Police for Southwest Papua, Commissioner Semmy Ronny Tabhaa. He stated that police will not tolerate legal violations—whether through direct actions or the dissemination of provocative content on social media. Every offense will be dealt with firmly and proportionally to maintain public order and national integrity.
Equally important, the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) reaffirmed their commitment to support legal enforcement against separatist groups. Commander of Military Resort 181/PVT, Brigadier General TNI Totok Sutriono, emphasized that if there is any indication of armed threats or clear endangerment of national sovereignty, the military is ready to act in accordance with constitutional mandates. He asserted that the unity of the Republic of Indonesia is non-negotiable, and all elements of the nation must unite to defend it.
A more humane and sustainable approach was also highlighted by the Ministry of Law and Human Rights through the Director General of Human Rights Instruments and Reinforcement, Nickolay Aprilindo. He stated that security in Papua cannot rely solely on repressive measures. What is needed are reconciliation steps involving all parties in a spirit of peace and unity. According to him, lasting peace can only be achieved when social justice and human rights are upheld.
There is a growing sense of collective awareness among Papuans as well. Agustinus R. Kambuaya, a member of the Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) from Southwest Papua, stressed the importance of social solidarity and resilience in rejecting violence and provocation. He asserted that Papua’s future would be bright if all societal elements work together to preserve peace and resist divisive influences.
Through a synergy of security efforts, sustainable development, and social reconciliation, the government demonstrates a strong commitment to making Papua a safe, peaceful, and prosperous region. Within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), Papua is not only guarded territorially but is also empowered and developed as part of the vision for a just and prosperous Indonesia. Therefore, safeguarding Papua is not just about protecting the nation’s borders—it is about safeguarding the hopes and hearts of every Indonesian living on the same soil.
The author is a Social Observer and Young Activist from Papua.
