Sustainability of National Development is Evidence that Papua is an Integral Part of the Republic of Indonesia

 By:  Theresia Wopari

Since being designated as an integral part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI), Papua has shown significant development in various sectors. This is proof of the government’s commitment to advancing the region and strengthening Papua’s integration into the Republic of Indonesia. Since joining Indonesia in 1969 through a process of transfer of sovereignty recognized by international law, Papua has continued to experience substantial transformation. Starting from infrastructure, education, health, to the economy, various efforts have been made by the government to ensure that Papua can develop and its people can experience significant benefits.One sector that shows rapid development in Papua is infrastructure. In recent decades, the Indonesian government has allocated a large budget for the construction of roads, bridges, ports and airports in Papua. The Trans Papua project is one example, which aims to connect various regions in Papua with a better road network. These roads not only facilitate people’s mobility, but also open access for the distribution of goods and services, which in turn improves the local economy.Apart from that, the construction of airports in various remote areas in Papua also allows for better connectivity, making it easier to access air transportation for both business and tourism purposes. Improved and expanded ports also play an important role in supporting trade and the economy in Papua.Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia KH Ma’ruf Amin said that the government continues to implement several strategic programs for the welfare of Papua. Among them are the Wamena Airport runway, the construction of the Trans Papua Wamena Jayapura national road, the Jayawijaya Regency Food Center area, the Electricity Program in Lanny Jaya Regency, and the Drinking Water Treatment System in Jayawijaya Regency. He hopes that the programs launched today will really have an impact and benefit the community so that they can increase economic growth, equitable development and community welfare in the Papua Mountain Province. His party also conveyed several important messages to the government and community in the Papua Mountain Province, namely building synergy and collaboration between the Central and Regional Governments in preparing appropriate regional development plans. Implement priority agendas, local wisdom and regional context. Because according to him, the preparation of appropriate regional development areas will encourage economic growth and improve community welfare.Apart from that, the Provincial Government should formulate a comprehensive strategy to reduce the level of costs in Papua’s mountains, accelerate the opening of regional isolation to improve basic services, and develop superior regional commodities, by encouraging the presence of food center areas to produce affordable food stocks according to community needs. ensure that the technical steps for preparation and implementation of the construction of provincial government infrastructure centers in 2024 go well.The Acting Governor of Mountainous Papua Province, Velix F. Wanggai, hopes that today’s national strategic program and the Mountainous Papua strategic program will mark the start of efforts and determination to build community welfare in all corners of Mountainous Papua province. Massive development in Papua will increase the spirit of nationalism and the state’s presence for prosperity in the land of Cenderawasih.It is known that even though much progress has been achieved, Papua still faces various challenges. Security issues, economic inequality and access to basic services in some remote areas are some of the challenges that still need to be overcome. However, with a strong commitment from the government and support from all Indonesian people, these challenges can be overcomeIn the future, development in Papua will continue with an inclusive and sustainable approach. The active participation of the Papuan people in every development process is the key to ensuring that the results of development are truly beneficial for them. Apart from that, protection of Papuan culture and customs will continue to be maintained as part of the wealth of the Indonesian nation.In conclusion, Since becoming an integral part of the Republic of Indonesia, Papua has experienced various rapid developments in various sectors. Infrastructure development, improving the quality of education and health, and sustainable economic growth are clear evidence of the government and community’s efforts to advance Papua. Even though there are still challenges that must be faced, hope for a more prosperous and prosperous Papua remains. With close cooperation between the government, community and various related parties, Papua can continue to develop and make a major contribution to Indonesia’s progress.In terms of history, law, culture and natural potential, Papua has an inseparable position from Indonesia. All elements of the nation must unite to ensure that Papua continues to develop within the framework of the Republic of Indonesia. With collective commitment and hard work, Papua can achieve its extraordinary potential and become an important pillar in Indonesia’s development.*) Papuan students live in  Bandung