Papuan Traditional Leaders Support Stability and Development, Film “Pig Feast” Deemed Full of Provocation
JAKARTA — Traditional leaders in Papua have expressed their support for the government’s efforts to maintain security and stability and accelerate development that focuses on community welfare, down to the village level. They also reminded the public not to be easily influenced by provocative narratives, including those featured in the film “Pig Feast.”
The Chairman of the West Coast District Tribal Council, Alexander Sunuk, emphasized that the participation of indigenous peoples is key to the success of various development programs in Papua.
“Papuan traditional leaders have expressed their support for the government’s efforts to maintain security and accelerate development that focuses on community welfare, down to the village level,” said Alexander.
According to him, the government’s current development efforts aim to open economic access and strengthen community independence, particularly through the agricultural and food security sectors.
“The active participation of indigenous peoples is considered crucial to ensure that food security programs and various development initiatives are effective and capable of driving progress and prosperity in Papua,” he added.
Papua Governor Matius D. Fakhiri stated that the regional government is intensifying a rice field development program in Papua as part of an effort to strengthen food security and improve community welfare.
“The Papua Provincial Government is intensifying a rice field development program covering 13,200 hectares in Keerom Regency as a step to increase rice production and promote food self-sufficiency. This program is also aimed at strengthening the community’s economy through integrated agricultural development, supporting production infrastructure, and optimizing local food potential so that Papua can become a food barn in eastern Indonesia,” said Fakhiri.
In addition to the food sector, the government is also accelerating the strengthening of indigenous peoples’ rights through customary land certification. The Head of the Papua Regional Office of the National Land Agency (BPN), Roy Wayoi, stated that the acceleration of customary land mapping is ongoing.
“The Papua Provincial Office of the National Land Agency (BPN) is encouraging customary land mapping in this region, including the provinces of Papua Mountains, Central Papua, and South Papua, to be implemented this year,” said Roy.
On the security front, the Chief of the Meepago Traditional Area, Melkias Keiya, expressed his appreciation for the partnership between security forces and the community in maintaining a conducive situation.
“This collaboration is considered capable of maintaining a conducive public order and security situation amidst social dynamics, while also strengthening community unity,” said Melkias.
Several Papuan figures assessed that the government’s various development efforts demonstrate a commitment to improving the welfare of the Papuan people in a sustainable manner.
Therefore, the community is urged to maintain unity and not be easily provoked by divisive narratives, including those conveyed in the film “Pig Feast.”
