Strengthening Unity, Traditional Leaders and Government Urge Residents to Reject Provocation Ahead of December 1
PAPUA – Ahead of December 1, 2025, various elements in Papua are demonstrating a strong commitment to maintaining peace and strengthening social harmony. The date often becomes a sensitive moment, but this year local governments, security forces, and traditional leaders are promoting unity to ensure that communities remain focused on positive activities and preparations for Christmas.
Commander of Kodim 1710/Mimika, Lt. Col. Inf. M. Slamet Wijaya, emphasized that the security situation in Mimika remains conducive and under control. He stated that heightened preparedness is intended to protect the public.
“We ensure that all residents can carry out their activities calmly. The presence of security forces is to provide a sense of safety, not the opposite,” he said.
According to him, integrated coordination between the military (TNI), police, and regional government plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in the region. He stressed that the community is a strategic partner in creating a harmonious environment.
“Papua progresses when the people and security forces walk together. Public support is highly valuable in efforts to maintain security,” Lt. Col. Slamet added.
In Nabire, the Indigenous People’s Institution (LMA) is strengthening its social role through outreach activities led by LMA Nabire Chairman, Karel Misiro. In discussions with traditional leaders and residents, Karel encouraged the community to remain calm and uphold unity.
“December 1 is a moment to safeguard ourselves, our families, and our villages. We must choose the path of peace for Papua’s future,” he said.
The LMA is also promoting positive initiatives such as increasing inter-village coordination, regular dialogue, and forming indigenous security monitoring groups. These efforts are seen as a form of local wisdom that strengthens communal solidarity.
“The responsibility to maintain peace is not only in the hands of security forces, but a duty shared by all Papuan people,” Karel added.
The Provincial Government of South Papua is likewise fostering an optimistic atmosphere by encouraging communities to enliven Christmas celebrations from early December. Christmas ornaments and decorations in public spaces are viewed as symbols of unity and hope for a more peaceful future for Papua. The government emphasized that cultural and religious spirit can strengthen community solidarity.
“We want December to be a month full of joy and free from anything that could disrupt harmony,” said one regional government official.
The call to reject provocation on December 1 is not merely a precaution but a concrete expression of collective efforts to ensure Papua remains safe and prosperous. With strong synergy between security forces, traditional leaders, government, and the people, Papua is expected to continue moving forward as a peaceful land with a hopeful future.
