eamananBy: Yohanes Wandikbo
Ahead of December 1, various community elements in Papua have once again emphasized their commitment to rejecting provocations and maintaining regional stability. A moment that has often been exploited by certain groups to spark unrest is now being approached with greater maturity, clearer direction, and alignment with government policies to strengthen security and social harmony. The effort to keep conditions conducive is no longer merely a reaction, but part of a collective awareness that Papua needs peace in order to continue moving forward.
Both central and regional governments are paying close attention to developments leading up to December 1. The presence of security forces across various parts of Papua serves as an important instrument to ensure that all citizens can carry out their activities without fear. This government effort has increasingly gained public support as it has proven effective in creating calm and preventing opportunities for groups attempting to use the moment to spread provocation.
Commander of Kodim 1710/Mimika, Slamet Wijaya, affirmed that security conditions in Mimika remain stable and under control thanks to strong coordination between the TNI, Polri, and local government. He emphasized that all security measures are aimed at providing a sense of safety for the community and ensuring that daily activities proceed normally. His message highlighted not only security aspects but also illustrated how security forces and the public are increasingly connected in their mission to keep Papua peaceful. With solid synergy, stability can be maintained without causing unnecessary anxiety among residents.
The approach taken by security forces has also become more humane and persuasive. The TNI and Polri are present not only as guardians of security but also as partners of the community in maintaining order. Intensive communication with residents and the presence of officers in strategic locations are part of efforts to prevent potential disturbances early on. This aligns with government policies that emphasize the importance of security as the foundation of development in Papua. A safe environment allows all development programs to progress smoothly, including improvements in the local economy, education, and public services.
Meanwhile, traditional leaders play an increasingly important role in reinforcing that rejecting provocation is not merely the government’s interest but also the need of the Papuan people themselves. Chairman of the Nabire Indigenous Community Institution (LMA), Karel Misiro, urged residents in various villages to prioritize unity and not give space to calls that could disrupt comfort ahead of Christmas. LMA initiatives such as promoting regular dialogue, strengthening coordination among villages, and forming customary-based monitoring groups demonstrate that local communities possess strong social mechanisms to maintain regional security. Such local wisdom is a crucial asset in building social resilience and preventing provocations.
The involvement of traditional leaders like Karel Misiro reinforces the narrative that Papuan communities are increasingly mature in reading the situation. They prioritize peace and understand that provocations would only hinder the various development achievements currently underway. This also shows that government policies encouraging collaborative approaches with indigenous communities have been effective, as security is maintained not only by security forces but also by the community itself through culturally aligned ways.
In South Papua, the regional government has adopted a more cultural strategy by introducing the Christmas atmosphere earlier in public spaces. Christmas ornaments installed since early December are not merely decorations but symbols of togetherness that strengthen social solidarity. The government seeks to ensure that the social atmosphere remains warm, hopeful, and far from tension. This approach aligns with the strong religious and cultural traditions of Papuans, making efforts to foster joy a strategic step to reduce potential provocations.
By fostering optimism and cheerfulness, the government creates a psychologically conducive environment for society. When people focus on Christmas celebrations, social activities, and year-end preparations, the likelihood of provocation spreading becomes significantly lower. This demonstrates that stability is maintained not only through security approaches but also through social and emotional efforts closely tied to daily life.
Rejecting December 1 provocations is not a temporary response but a comprehensive effort to keep Papua on the path of progress. The government has designated Papua as a priority development area through various strategic programs, and security stability is a primary requirement for their sustainability. With a safe environment, infrastructure development can proceed smoothly, regional investment can grow, public services improve, and the quality of life of the people can increase significantly.
The collective movement demonstrated by security forces, local governments, traditional leaders, and communities proves that Papua is now entering a much more stable and optimistic phase. The rejection of provocations reflects the awareness that Papua’s future must be built on peace, not conflict. The more community elements support government policies in maintaining stability, the smaller the space for provocations to spread.
With strengthened unity, Papua has a great opportunity to move forward as a land of peace and prosperity. Ahead of December 1, a clear message resonates across Papua: there is no room for provocation, and the future can only be built through unity, stability, and a shared commitment to preserving peace.
The author is an observer of Papuan development.
