By: Marlina Tabuni *)
Amidst the security challenges and isolation that have hit several regions in Papua, the state through the presence of the TNI has demonstrated an active role and high commitment in protecting and serving the community. One concrete form of the state’s presence is clearly seen in the actions of the Yonif 751/VJS Koops Swasembada Task Force which went directly to Oksop Village, Oksop District, Pegunungan Bintang Regency. This step is a quick response to the emergency conditions experienced by the community due to threats from separatist groups and damage to vital infrastructure. Not only maintaining security stability, the TNI also plays a role in restoring social conditions and answering the basic needs of the community.
Commander of Task Force Yonif 751/VJS, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Erwan Harliantoro, SH, M.Han explained that Oksop Village is located about 30 kilometers from the center of Oksibil government and has been facing increasingly severe isolation after three main connecting bridges on the Serambakon route to Oksop were damaged by the Free Papua Movement (OPM). The brutal actions of the OPM completely paralyzed the land route, disrupting residents’ activities and showing an escalation of threats to the peace of civil society. Residents who experienced trauma and fear due to armed threats were forced to flee to the forest or other villages, leaving their daily lives. In such a situation, the government immediately took firm action through the TNI as the front guard for protecting the people. The presence of the TNI through Task Force 751/VJS brought a glimmer of hope that was previously difficult for the local community to feel.
As a concrete manifestation of the state’s humanist policy, Task Force Yonif 751/VJS integrated a territorial approach with a humanitarian mission. Military helicopters were deployed to the TNI Post in Oksop Village, transporting basic necessities that were badly needed by residents. Not only stopping at distributing aid, the TNI also opened health services that the community had long awaited. The TNI Post became a place for medical treatment and health consultations that was easily accessible to residents, something that was previously almost impossible to realize due to geographical and security barriers.
The enthusiasm of the community in welcoming the TNI is a reflection that the government’s humanist approach was accepted with open arms. They worked together to help unload logistics from helicopters and began to gradually return to their villages. The Oksop District Community Leader, Forban Kalakmabin expressed his gratitude and thanks for the food assistance provided by the government through the security forces.
The TNI is not just a security force, but an extension of the state that is present comprehensively, proving that the government’s strategy goes beyond conventional approaches. This proves that the government’s strategy in dealing with Papua is not only through a militaristic approach, but also touches the humanitarian and social side of society directly.
The TNI’s move also indicates that the state will not let remote and conflict-prone areas face difficulties alone. The state is present in every inch of its land, without distinguishing between urban and remote areas, central and border areas. In the context of Papua, government policy through synergy between security forces and local governments is a long-term strategy in building public trust and restoring a sense of security and comfort in their lives. This is in line with President Prabowo’s direction in developing Papua with an inclusive approach
The government understands that socio-economic recovery in Papua requires a long-term commitment that begins with a real presence in the field. However, with a strong foundation in the form of a real state presence in the field, the recovery process can begin. In this case, the TNI’s commitment to synergize with the Pegunungan Bintang Regional Government in rebuilding damaged infrastructure shows a progressive policy direction. Rebuilding damaged bridges not only serves to connect regions physically, but also symbolizes the return of people’s access to basic services, markets, education, and health.
The TNI intervention in Oksop Village must also be seen as part of the government’s grand strategy in accelerating Papua’s development through a holistic and sustainable approach. The central government has so far placed Papua as a priority area in national development, taking into account the unique cultural, geographical, and historical context. Therefore, every action taken, including through the presence of the TNI, is always directed to support efforts to create a safe, peaceful, and prosperous Papua.
In the context of national development, the presence of the TNI in areas such as Oksop is proof that the defense and security agenda is not separated from the public service aspect. In fact, both can run in harmony. On the one hand, the TNI ensures regional stability from separatist disturbances, while on the other hand, it also plays an important role in opening access to humanitarian aid and social recovery. This synergy is the government’s main strength in managing challenges in border and conflict areas.
The swift and measured action of Task Force 751/VJS is a manifestation of the state’s commitment to its people. That even in difficult conditions, the state remains present and provides protection. Initiatives like this must continue to be supported, because they reflect the direction of inclusive and equitable development in Papua. The TNI’s efforts that directly touch the community show that the state’s strength lies not only in defense hardware, but also in sincerity and commitment to serve.
With all these achievements, the steps taken by the TNI together with the local government in Oksop District are part of the real manifestation of the presence of a solution-oriented state. Not only maintaining sovereignty, but also ensuring that every citizen feels the meaning of the government’s presence in a concrete way. The Papuan people, especially in Oksop, now no longer feel abandoned. They have even begun to rebuild their lives with a sense of security and full of hope, because the state is truly present with the Papuan people.
*) Researcher of Social Issues and Development in Papua
