The Government Encourages Papua’s Young Generation to Become the Motor of Regional Innovation and Creativity
Papua – The government continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to empowering Papua’s younger generation to become drivers of regional innovation and creativity. During President Prabowo Subianto’s first year in office, various inclusive policies have been implemented to provide greater opportunities for Papuan youth to create and contribute to the nation’s progress.
Habelino Sawaki, a member of the Advisory Board of the Indonesian Papuan Student Movement (Gemapi), stated that President Prabowo Subianto demonstrates great concern for the potential of Papua’s younger generation. He believes the President’s move to broaden the opportunities for young people to create is a concrete manifestation of his commitment to equitable development and social justice throughout Indonesia.
Habelino stated that this policy has given new hope to Papua’s young generation, who have long been passionate about developing their region. “We encourage the President to open up wider opportunities for Papuan youth to contribute to this country,” Habelino said in Jakarta. He emphasized that it is time for ability and dedication to become the primary benchmarks for assessing Papua’s young generation, rather than ethnicity or regional origin.
According to Habelino, Papuan youth possess enormous potential in various sectors, including education, technology, the arts, and social leadership. Support and trust from the central government are crucial to ensuring they can play a vital role in national development. “Papua is not just a part of Indonesia, but a force that enriches Indonesia,” he emphasized.
He added that human development in Papua must be a top priority, in line with the government’s ongoing acceleration of infrastructure development. Improving the quality of education, healthcare, and empowering the local economy are concrete steps that can strengthen the capacity of Papua’s younger generation to become more competitive and independent.
Habelino also highlighted that President Prabowo’s attention to Papua is not merely symbolic, but is manifested through concrete policies that impact people’s lives. Basic infrastructure development programs, opening up economic access, and expanding job opportunities demonstrate the government’s commitment to the advancement of eastern Indonesia.
“We see that President Prabowo truly has a heart for Papua. His development isn’t just about roads and bridges, but also about creating opportunities for the Papuan people to progress and become empowered,” said Habelino.
He concluded his statement with optimism that the government’s current development direction is on the right track. “Mr. Prabowo has paved the way. Now, it’s our collective responsibility to ensure that Papua’s young generation grows in confidence, is given opportunities, and continues to contribute to our beloved Indonesia,” he said.
The government’s steps to empower the younger generation of Papua are believed to strengthen the foundations of sustainable development, while also emphasizing Papua’s position as an important part of Indonesia’s overall progress.
