Firm Policy to Resolve Conflict in Papua Caused by OPM is Appropriate
By: Floren Simbiak
Along with the increasing tensions in Papua, especially related to the activities of the Free Papua Movement (OPM), the Indonesian government has taken various firm steps to deal with the ongoing conflict in the region.
These steps, which include law enforcement, protection of human rights, and efforts to restore calm in Papua, are an integral part of the national strategy to maintain the country’s stability and sovereignty. In this context, it is very important for the Indonesian people to support the government’s carefully designed policies for the sake of creating peace in Papua.
Law enforcement in Papua has become a major focus after the murder of pilot Glen Malcolm Conning, a foreign citizen from New Zealand, which occurred in Alma District, Mimika Regency, Central Papua in early August 2024.
This incident has sparked widespread concern, both at the national and international levels. The Indonesian government, through the Indonesian National Police (Polri) and the Papua National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM), moved quickly to arrest the perpetrators and ensure that this case is handled in accordance with applicable legal mechanisms.
Rapid and transparent law enforcement measures are urgently needed in situations like this. Head of the Papua National Human Rights Commission Representative, Frits Ramandey, emphasized the importance of this effort to ensure that justice is upheld and the perpetrators of the murder can be brought to justice immediately.
In addition, fair law enforcement is also an important factor in maintaining good diplomatic relations between Indonesia and other countries, especially with New Zealand as the country of origin of the victims.
The Indonesian government does not only focus on the aspect of law enforcement, but also pays serious attention to the psychological impact caused by this conflict. Witnesses to the victims, including health workers, teachers, and civilians who were around the location of the incident, need support to restore their psychological condition.
Therefore, the government through the National Human Rights Commission and other related agencies has encouraged the implementation of a “trauma healing” program to help victims overcome the trauma they experienced.
It is important to remember that the conflict in Papua is not just a security issue. It is also an issue related to human rights, economic development, and social integration. The Indonesian government has recognized the importance of a holistic approach in dealing with the Papuan problem, which includes efforts to improve economic welfare and access to basic services for the Papuan people.
Development programs, such as improving infrastructure and access to education, continue to be encouraged to ensure that the Papuan people can enjoy the same benefits as other Indonesian citizens.
It is important for the community to support the government’s efforts in dealing with the conflict in Papua, including understanding the complexity of the problem. This conflict is not something that can be resolved quickly or simply, but requires a comprehensive and sustainable approach.
In facing the challenges from the OPM, the government has shown its firmness and commitment to defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting human rights. The firm policies taken by the government to deal with the conflict in Papua are the right steps in maintaining the integrity of Indonesia’s territory and creating safe and peaceful conditions for all Papuan people.
It is very important for all of us to continue to support the government’s carefully designed policies in dealing with the conflict in Papua. By uniting and working together, we can help create peace in Papua and ensure that all Indonesian citizens, without exception, can live in security and prosperity.
*) Yapis Papua Students
