Community Unity is a Pillar of Progress and Prosperity in Papua
By: Loa Murib
The development and prosperity of Papua are inseparable from stable and peaceful security conditions. The land of Papua, with all its natural wealth and cultural diversity, requires a conducive environment so that all of this potential can be managed for the benefit of the wider community. In this regard, the collaboration between the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and the community is a key pillar in maintaining peace and strengthening the foundation of a prosperous and peaceful Papua.
The regional government continues to affirm its trust in the TNI and Polri as guardians of security in Papua. The Governor of South Papua, Apolo Safanpo, emphasized that public security and order are fully entrusted to the authorities. He emphasized that the role of security forces cannot be replaced, but the community is also required to play an active role in protecting their environment. He stated that the community should not take action alone when violations of the law occur, but should instead hand over the matter to the authorities. This affirmation demonstrates the importance of synergy between the community and the authorities in building an orderly social order.
Community leaders also expressed similar views. Nelvis K. Manobi, Chairman of the AMPI Regional Representative Council (DPD) for Jayapura Regency and Deputy Chairman of the AMPI Regional Representative Council (DPD) for Papua Province, assessed that the success of the authorities through the Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force in cracking down on the OPM (Free Papua Movement) is clear evidence of the state’s commitment to protecting the Papuan people. However, he also emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved with the active participation of the community. He stated that maintaining security is not solely the responsibility of the authorities, but a shared responsibility, including for young people, who are expected to serve as role models in creating social harmony.
This sense of togetherness is also reflected in the officers’ daily activities in the field. The Tolikara Police, for example, prioritizes a humanistic approach through routine patrols that serve not only as surveillance but also as a means of establishing communication with the community. Police personnel greet residents, engage in dialogue, and even convey messages of public order and security directly. The Tolikara Police Chief, Commissioner Roberth Hitipeuw, emphasized that the presence of officers among the community is expected to provide a sense of security and strengthen public trust in the National Police (Polri). In this way, the National Police demonstrate that they are present not only as law enforcers but also as partners with the community in maintaining a conducive environment.
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) through Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan, stationed in Intan Jaya, Central Papua, has also taken similar steps. The soldiers demonstrated that their duty extends beyond guarding the border, but also to fostering a sense of community. Simple social interactions, such as having lunch with residents in Mamba Village, foster meaningful camaraderie. These moments of togetherness not only create a sense of security but also strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that are the foundation for a peaceful and prosperous Papua.
The community’s appreciation for these measures further emphasizes that a persuasive and humane approach is key to maintaining a conducive environment in Papua. Community leader Jhon Sani, who has experienced the TNI’s presence in his community, expressed his gratitude for the attention shown by the officers, not only in the security context but also in daily social life. This demonstrates that public trust grows when officers are present with a friendly, caring presence and prioritize the values of brotherhood.
A prosperous and peaceful Papua is a shared goal that requires the contribution of all parties. The role of local governments in supporting the authorities, the participation of community leaders in building collective awareness, and the enthusiasm of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (Polri) in engaging with the people are mutually reinforcing pillars. Without this synergy, efforts to create sustainable security will be difficult to achieve.
Furthermore, this togetherness also confirms that stability in Papua is not solely a military or police matter, but part of the Papuan people’s long journey toward prosperity. In a peaceful atmosphere, development can proceed unhindered, the local economy thrives, and the younger generation can grow with optimism. Conversely, conflict and chaos will only hinder every step towards a brighter future.
Therefore, strengthening collaboration between the TNI, Polri, local governments, community leaders, and Papuan youth is essential. The collective awareness that security is a shared responsibility must continue to be fostered in every aspect of life. Every small step, from safeguarding the environment to actively supporting the authorities in countering provocations by armed groups, is a valuable contribution to building a peaceful Papua.
