By: Loa Murib
The unrest that occurred in Yalimo serves as a reminder of how fragile peace can be if not safeguarded together. What initially sparked a minor dispute escalated into anarchic actions that harmed the community, both socially and economically. Although conditions have returned to normal thanks to the swift action of security forces, this incident should serve as an important lesson to prevent the public from being easily provoked by rumors or incitement that could disrupt the peace. Papua, particularly the Yalimo and Jayawijaya regions, has a long history of living in peace and brotherhood. These values must be maintained to ensure ongoing development is not disrupted.
The Head of the Jayawijaya Regency Indigenous Peoples’ Institution, Herman Doga, emphasized that Jayawijaya, as part of a newly established province, must be founded on a culture of peace. He reminded the community not to bring external conflicts, including those occurring in Yalimo, into the Baliem Valley. This call reflects the wise perspective of a traditional leader who understands that stability is key to maintaining community living space. According to Herman, every tribal chief, village head, and district-level LMA head has a responsibility to protect their territory from conflict. This emphasizes that maintaining peace is not solely the responsibility of security forces but also the moral obligation of all indigenous people.
Elelim traditional leader Musa Yare expressed a similar view. He assessed that the riots in Yalimo had caused significant losses, both materially and socially. He believed the incident should serve as a lesson for the community to exercise restraint and avoid provocation. Musa emphasized the importance of solidarity among residents, particularly in working with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) to create a secure environment. He also emphasized that unity and peace are the main foundations for building a better Papua. Thus, this call reaffirmed the role of traditional leaders as guardians of harmonious values within the community.
The previously tense security situation in Elelim is now under control. Papua Regional Police Public Relations Chief, Senior Commissioner Cahyo Sukarnito, explained that security forces, along with the local government, had taken preventative measures to prevent the riots from spreading. The presence of two Brimob platoons and law enforcement by the Yalimo Police are clear evidence that the state is there to protect the community. Senior Commissioner Cahyo also urged the public to exercise restraint and not take the law into their own hands, as anarchic actions will only worsen the situation. This swift action by the authorities is crucial to ensuring the situation remains under control and providing a sense of security for residents.
The unrest in Yalimo also demonstrated how quickly rumors spread, particularly on social media. There are allegations that the unrest was triggered by certain sentiments, although this remains unconfirmed. This situation serves as a reminder that unverified information has the potential to worsen the situation. The public needs to be wise in responding to circulating news, especially if the source is unclear. The inability to distinguish between fact and hoax often becomes a gateway for provocation. Therefore, information literacy and collective awareness in rejecting false news are crucial for maintaining peace in Papua.
Papua is currently in a development phase that will determine its future. Infrastructure is being built, public services are being strengthened, and access to education and healthcare is being continuously improved. All these efforts will be unsuccessful if stability is not maintained. Unrest like that which occurred in Yalimo has the potential to undermine ongoing development achievements. Therefore, the public needs to realize that rejecting provocation is not only about maintaining security, but also ensuring sustainable development that will benefit future generations.
The role of traditional, religious, and community leaders is crucial in mitigating potential conflict. Local wisdom, which has long been a guiding principle for Papuan life, must be continuously safeguarded as a bulwark against negative influences. The presence of figures like Herman Doga and Musa Yare, who advocate for peace, demonstrates that Papuans possess strong social capital to resist provocation. If these voices of peace continue to be echoed, the community will become more resilient in facing various challenges that seek to disrupt harmony.
Security forces have demonstrated their commitment to protecting the community by prioritizing preventative measures. However, the greatest responsibility rests with the community itself. Peace is impossible without a collective commitment to mutual protection. Every citizen, from the hamlet to the city, has a role to play in ensuring their surroundings remain safe. Thus, harmony in Papua is not merely an ideal, but a reality that must be realized together.
Ultimately, Yalimo must serve as an example that differences can be managed without leading to violence. Yesterday’s events should be a turning point in strengthening the commitment to maintaining peace. Provocation will only bring suffering, while peace is the path to prosperity. Therefore, the Papuan people, especially in Yalimo and Jayawijaya, need to continue to strengthen their resolve to live in harmony. Only then can development proceed smoothly and a brighter future for Papua be realized.
*The author is a Papuan student in East Java
