Papuan Figures Urge Residents Not to Be Provoked by Anarchic Demonstrations
Manokwari – Several community, traditional, and religious leaders in Papua emphasized the importance of maintaining order and rejecting all forms of provocation related to the wave of demonstrations occurring in several regions across Indonesia. The leaders believe that political dynamics at the national level, including demonstrations in Jakarta and other major cities, should not affect stability in Papua, which has long been known as a peaceful and tolerant region.
Klemens Nimbafu, a youth leader from the Irarutu Tribe in Kaimana Regency, emphasized the importance of a wise approach in addressing various issues.
“Let’s not be provoked, especially regarding incidents or problems in parliament or the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), which have an impact on the common people. Papua is known as a zone of peace; let’s protect it together with one heart,” he said.
Ali Hindom, Head of the Fakfak Regency Interfaith Harmony Forum (FKUB), echoed this sentiment. He urged residents not to be influenced by the demonstrations in Jakarta and other cities.
“If we have aspirations, let’s express them in an orderly manner, without resorting to violence. In Fakfak, we have a culture of one hearth, three stones, which is what keeps us living in harmony and tolerance,” he said.
Yos Marani, Deputy Chief of Region II Ransiki, also reminded the public not to be swept up in national political issues.
“The people’s voices do need to be heard, but we in the region shouldn’t get involved and cause chaos. It’s better for us to maintain order and a peaceful atmosphere so that community activities are not disrupted,” he explained.
Echoing this sentiment, Ayub Msiren, Head of the Legal Bureau of the Communion of Pentecostal Churches in Indonesia (PGPI) West Papua, urged the public to reject calls for anarchy.
“Let’s maintain regional security and not be easily provoked by hoaxes that could divide us all,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Samuel Mandowen, Chairman of the West Papua Red and White Front Regional Leadership Council (DPD), emphasized that the people of Manokwari should not be influenced by misleading issues and opinions.
“If not now, when? If not us, then who? We are the ones who can safeguard public facilities and ensure Manokwari remains safe, peaceful, and full of love,” he said.
The call of these leaders serves as an important reminder for the Papuan people to maintain brotherhood, avoid provocation, and prioritize peace for the sake of sustainable development in the region.
