Papuan Figures Urge Public Not to Be Provoked, Maintain Peace in Papua

Sorong – Several traditional and community leaders and figures in Southwest Papua have urged residents not to be easily influenced by rumors or provocations related to the security situation following the transfer of four treason detainees from Sorong to Makassar. They warned that anarchic actions will only harm the community itself.

Demak Siji, a traditional leader from Aitinyo Raya, Maybrat Regency, and a member of the Papuan People’s Assembly (MRP) for Southwest Papua, emphasized the importance of self-restraint and not participating in potentially harmful actions.

“I urge all Maybrat residents in Maybrat Regency and Sorong not to interfere with demonstrations. We have seen many incidents, some victims and even arrests. All of this is detrimental to us,” said Demak Siji.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace for the survival and future well-being of the community.

“Let’s think about the future of our children so they remain safe, healthy, and able to work for a better life within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia,” he added.

Echoing this sentiment, Moses Kaliele, Head of the Binasket Tribe of Sorong Regency, asked the public to remain calm and not be provoked by certain groups.

“I urge all residents of Sorong Regency not to be provoked by parties who deliberately create unrest,” he emphasized.

He also invited all parties to join hands to create a peaceful atmosphere.

I hope community leaders, religious leaders, and youth leaders will work together to maintain a safe and conducive environment in our region,” he said.

Meanwhile, Moses Parebabo, a community leader from Biak Karon and Head of Ruaf Village in Tambrauw Regency, also conveyed a similar message.

“I urge the Biak Karon community in Tambrauw Regency not to be influenced by negative issues. “Let’s create a safe and conducive Tambrauw for the common good,” he said.

Southwest Papuan leaders agreed that public security and order (Kamtibmas) is a shared responsibility, requiring cooperation from all elements of society, along with the local government and security forces, to maintain peace in the Papua region.