By: Lusi Wenda *)
Calls to maintain security and peace in Papua are growing stronger. Traditional and religious leaders emphasize that regional stability is not solely the responsibility of the government and security forces, but also the moral obligation of every citizen. This call comes amidst a dynamic national situation that frequently sparks demonstrations in several major cities, which are feared could have repercussions throughout Papua.
The head of the Skanto District Traditional Council, Didimo Sorare, believes the people of Keerom should not be influenced by actions outside Papua. He believes the wave of demonstrations in major cities does not benefit communities at the village level. He emphasized that energy would be better directed toward cooperation in maintaining environmental security and supporting basic infrastructure development, such as road repairs, which remain a primary need in many areas. This way, community life can continue peacefully and development can continue.
A similar sentiment came from the Emkate tribal chief, Oktavianus Stafur. He considered the demonstrations to be creating unrest without a clear purpose. He argued that if there were problems, the more appropriate way would be to address them through constructive dialogue, rather than anarchic actions. He emphasized the importance of peace in the villages, as the communities’ lives are far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. He considered the call to join the demonstrations completely meaningless and could even lead to chaos that would harm many parties.
The peaceful messages from these traditional leaders demonstrate an awareness that security is the foundation of development. Without peace, ongoing government programs will be hampered. The construction of roads, schools, healthcare services, and even local economic development can only succeed if the community consistently maintains order. This demonstrates that maintaining security is not only about preventing unrest but also part of efforts to accelerate Papua’s progress.
Meanwhile, the Asotimur Traditional Leader emphasized the importance of border communities not being easily provoked by national issues. He urged residents to focus on supporting development programs from the central government down to their villages. He argued that provincial expansion, district development, and village strengthening can only succeed if the community refrains from unfounded calls. This call underscores the importance of stability on the border, key to maintaining peace in Papua.
A similar reminder came from religious figure Reverend Telius Wonda, who highlighted the bitter experience in Puncak Jaya. He recalled the numerous casualties and property losses resulting from previous riots. This experience serves as a valuable lesson for the community to exercise restraint, protect their families, and uphold the region’s reputation. He believes that the peace in Puncak Jaya is crucial for building a better life in the future.
Papuan society inherently holds local wisdom values that emphasize togetherness, brotherhood, and peace. These values are revived by leaders when potential provocations begin to emerge. By maintaining peace, communities not only protect themselves from potential conflict but also pave the way for investment, infrastructure development, and improved public services. Security is a crucial foundation for government programs to truly impact the daily lives of Papuans.
Furthermore, the messages from these figures also have a national political dimension. By urging the public to maintain stability, they are simultaneously strengthening their commitment to remaining united within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. For Papuan leaders, provocative demonstrations do not create space for healthy dialogue and instead undermine public trust in development. Therefore, prioritizing deliberation and cooperation is the preferred solution.
The government itself continues to encourage community involvement in maintaining security. The role of traditional, religious, and community leaders is considered strategic due to their emotional closeness to the population. Their support is crucial for reinforcing the message of peace and ensuring development programs proceed as planned. With harmony between the government and community leaders, the situation in Papua can remain protected from potential disturbances.
Going forward, maintaining security and peace in Papua requires collective awareness. Every individual has a moral responsibility not to be provoked by misleading rumors. The call from traditional and religious leaders demonstrates that the commitment to peace stems from a strong local conscience. If the community can maintain this stance consistently, the government’s ambitious agenda of realizing a prosperous, advanced, and equal Papua with other regions in Indonesia will be more easily achieved.
The calls echoing from Keerom to Puncak Jaya demonstrate the Papuan people’s determination to maintain security. The leaders’ message is simple yet firm: refrain from participating in useless actions, remain calm, and support government programs. This is the foundation for Papua to be known not only as a region rich in culture and nature, but also as a land of peace and hope.
*) Papuan Social Observer
