Papua- The United Nations (UN) has officially recognized Papua as an inseparable part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI) since 1963. This recognition confirms the strong position of Papua within the framework of Indonesian unity.
This international recognition is not just a formality. This massive development in Indonesia’s easternmost province, spearheaded by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, confirms the government’s commitment to advancing Papua in all aspects.
Steve Mara, Chair of the Melanesian Youth Diplomacy Forum and a Papuan figure, acknowledged the importance of this development in improving the infrastructure and quality of Papua’s Human Resources (HR). This is a clear example of the government’s attention to Papua which is increasingly strengthening Papua’s integration within the Republic of Indonesia.
All of these efforts show a development paradigm that is evenly distributed throughout Indonesia, not just ending on the island of Java. The government continues to strive to develop Papua, even in remote areas of the country, with the hope that this development will have a positive impact on increasing human resources and economic growth in Papua.
The active involvement of the young Papuan generation in this development has further strengthened their sense of nationalism and love for the Republic of Indonesia. The government has accommodated their participation, showing shared responsibility in Papua’s development.
Charles Kossay, a young Papuan figure, described the government’s consistency in paying attention to the conditions and needs of Papua from the era of President Soekarno to Joko Widodo. The policies taken are always relevant to the situation and conditions of Papua.
The Indonesian government continues to strive to improve the welfare of indigenous Papuans with a holistic approach. Approaching the change of leadership in 2024, great hopes are focused on the continuation of national policies that will have a positive impact on Papua.
Therefore, the government’s full attention to Papua as an integral part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia must continue to be maintained. This is a strong foundation for the young generation of Papua to continue to maintain the unity and unity of the Republic of Indonesia from Sabang to Merauke.