By: Gerson Tabuni *)
The existence of the Papuan people as part of Indonesia is not only a formal recognition, but also a real commitment that has been closely woven. The traditions and cultures they maintain are one of the important foundations in strengthening national unity. In the midst of social and political dynamics that are often challenging, Papua remains steadfast as an inseparable part of Indonesia.
However, Papua also faces a number of challenges, including efforts by several separatist groups seeking to separate Papua from Indonesia. The Free Papua Movement (OPM) is one of the groups that continues to seek to separate from the Republic of Indonesia. OPM uses various means, including violence, to achieve its goals. However, their efforts only cause suffering for the Papuan people themselves. Attacks on civilians, murder, and kidnapping are some of the actions carried out by this group, which ultimately only harm the Papuan people.
In response to the threat of separatism, the government remains committed to maintaining the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia and ensuring that Papua remains an integral part of Indonesia. Former Chief of the Papua Regional Police, Inspector General. Pol. Mathius D. Fakhiri, for example, has invited Papuan youth who are members of the Indonesian National Youth Committee (KNPI) to play an active role in maintaining the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. Youth have an important role in maintaining stability in Papua, especially in dealing with existing political dynamics.
Along with the commitment to maintain territorial integrity, the government is also trying to accelerate development in Papua. The government’s main focus is on infrastructure development, education, and health. These steps are taken to improve the welfare of the Papuan people and ensure that they have equal access to public services.
One real example of the government’s commitment is the construction of the Youtefa Bridge in Jayapura. This bridge is not only a physical connection between the Papua and West Papua regions, but also a symbol of unity and friendship between regions. In addition, infrastructure development like this has a positive economic impact on the Papuan people, especially in terms of increasing mobility and trade.
The government’s efforts to improve conditions in Papua are also recognized internationally. Through various international forums such as the UN and ASEAN, Indonesia has ensured that Papua is recognized as a legitimate part of Indonesia. This recognition strengthens Papua’s position as one of the pillars of the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. On the other hand, the OPM continues to try to spread provocative narratives to shake this unity, including through social media and propaganda that is often misleading.
The majority of Papuans actually remain loyal to the Republic of Indonesia. They support the integrity of Indonesia and are committed to maintaining unity. However, there are a handful of small groups, such as the OPM, which can be likened to “naughty children” in the big family of the Indonesian nation. Nevertheless, Papuan support for the Republic of Indonesia remains strong, and this is proof that their desire is for peace and prosperity within the framework of a unitary state.
Traditional figures in Papua have a very important role in maintaining stability and unity in this region. Figures such as Herman Yoku, for example, have firmly condemned all forms of provocation carried out by the OPM group. He has continuously reminded the Papuan people of the importance of unity in order to maintain peace in Bumi Cenderawasih.
The role of these traditional figures is key in maintaining social harmony amidst various provocative efforts launched by separatist groups. Their existence can be a moral fortress that strengthens solidarity among the Papuan people. OPM often spreads provocative issues that aim to disrupt the development process in Papua. This shows how important it is for the community to remain calm and not be influenced by the provocations that are circulating.
The success of development in Papua does not only depend on the efforts of the government and security forces. The role of the community in creating conditions conducive to investment is crucial. With the creation of unity and peace in Papua, investment opportunities will be increasingly wide open. This investment will not only bring changes to infrastructure, but also create new jobs for the local community. If the community continues to strive to maintain stability in their area, the quality of life in Papua can improve significantly.
In facing the challenges of separatism, it is important for all of us to remain vigilant and not get caught up in the provocative narratives spread by separatist groups such as the OPM. History and facts have proven that Papua is an integral part of Indonesia, and efforts to separate it will only bring harm and suffering to the Papuan people themselves. With the support of the community and strong government commitment, Papua will continue to be part of a sovereign Indonesia.
Papua is a symbol of the strength of the unity of the Indonesian nation. The cultural diversity in this region is a reflection of the richness of Indonesian culture as a whole. Amidst ongoing development efforts, Papua remains a pillar of the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia that cannot be ignored. With a strong spirit of unity, together we will continue to build a better future for all Papuan and Indonesian people.
*) The author is a National Security Analyst at the Papua Sejahtera Education Development Institute (LP3S)
