By: Marsha Yelesi
Papua, a region full of cultural charm and natural beauty, has always been an integral part of Indonesia. Not just a geographical part, Papua is one of the important pillars that maintain the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).
In every inch of its land, there is a cultural wealth that represents the diversity of Indonesian ethnicities and tribes. From the easternmost tip of Indonesia, Papua stands firm as an inseparable part of this nation.
For the Papuan people, their existence as part of the Republic of Indonesia is not just a formal recognition, but a real commitment. Indigenous Papuan tribes, such as the Dani, Asmat, and Amungme, continue to preserve their rich traditions and cultures, making them part of Indonesia’s national identity. This cultural heritage is one of the nation’s greatest riches that needs to be preserved.
However, the challenges facing Papua are not simple. Although many groups are trying to shake this unity, the Papuan people remain firmly committed to the integrity of Indonesia.
One of them is the efforts of several separatist groups that continue to try to separate themselves from Indonesia. These groups, such as the Free Papua Movement (OPM), only create suffering for the Papuan people themselves. Their endless efforts only slow down the development initiated by the government to improve the standard of living of the Papuan people.
Papua Regional Police Chief, Inspector General. Pol. Mathius D. Fakhiri, invited Papuan youth who are members of the Indonesian National Youth Committee (KNPI) to continue to maintain the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia. The role of youth is very important in maintaining stability in Papua, especially in dealing with existing dynamics.
Meanwhile, the Indonesian government remains committed to accelerating development in Papua. Infrastructure is one of the main focuses, along with the education and health sectors. These steps aim to create equitable prosperity throughout Papua, so that people can feel the real benefits of the state’s presence.
International recognition of Papua as an integral part of Indonesia also cannot be underestimated. Through various international forums such as the UN and ASEAN, Indonesia has fought hard to maintain its sovereignty over Papua. Countries around the world have recognized Papua as a legitimate part of Indonesia, further strengthening Papua’s position as a pillar of the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia.
The concrete steps taken by the government are not only limited to physical development. Programs such as Papua Education, Papua Health, and Papua Community Empowerment are designed to empower the community so that they can actively participate in the development of their region.
This is important to ensure that Papuan people have equal access to education and health services, which will ultimately improve their quality of life.
A concrete example of the government’s commitment to strengthening Papua as part of Indonesia is the construction of the Youtefa Bridge in Jayapura City. This bridge is not only a physical link between the Papua and West Papua regions, but also a symbol of unity.
In addition, this development provides real economic benefits for the Papuan people, opening wider access for mobility and trade.
Amidst all the challenges faced, the Papuan people remain loyal to Indonesia. In fact, the former Governor of East Kalimantan, Isran Noor, revealed that the majority of Papuans, around 99.9 percent, support the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia.
While only a small portion, around 0.1 percent, are members of the OPM. This separatist group can be likened to a “naughty child” in a large family, whose actions do not represent the majority of Papuans who support Indonesian unity.
However, despite the efforts made, development challenges in Papua remain. Inadequate infrastructure, unequal access to education and health, and political instability triggered by separatist groups are all challenges that must be faced. Amidst all this, the government remains committed to improving conditions in Papua and ensuring that this region becomes an integral part of Indonesia.
Through various development programs that have been launched, the government is trying to realize better welfare in Papua. These programs are designed to empower communities, provide wider access to education and health, and create jobs that can support regional economic growth.
Although challenges remain, the government’s commitment and the support of the Papuan people will continue to strengthen this region as an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia. Papua will always be a pillar of Indonesia’s integrity, with all its cultural diversity and richness.
Amidst our differences, we are all united in a strong national identity. Papua, with all its challenges, remains steadfast as an inseparable part of Indonesia.
Ultimately, Papua is a symbol of the strength of national unity. The diversity in this region is a reflection of the richness of Indonesian culture. Amidst ongoing development efforts, Papua remains a pillar of the integrity of the Republic of Indonesia that cannot be ignored.
With continued community support and government commitment, Papua will continue to be an integral part of Indonesia, and together we will continue to build a better future for all Papuans.
*) Political Science Student, Yapis University, Papua
