Jayapura, – In order to welcome the 79th anniversary of the Republic of Indonesia, a joint team consisting of personnel from the Cartenz-2024 Peace Ops Task Force, Amole Task Force, and members of Brimob Battalion B Pioneer raised the Red and White flag at the top of Mount Cartensz, the highest point in Indonesia with a height of 4,884 meters above sea level. Led by Inspector Abdul Hamid, this epic journey took four days, with various obstacles and thorough preparations that had to be taken.
The journey started from the Command Headquarters (Mako) of Battalion B Pioneer Satbrimob Polda Papua, where the entire team spent the first day with basic training in using iceberg climbing equipment. All personnel learn climbing techniques with special tools such as crampons, climbing ropes and ice axes. This intensive training aims to prepare team members physically and mentally to face extreme conditions in the mountains.
After completing basic training, the group then continued their journey to Gresberg, an area owned by PT Freeport Indonesia, to carry out acclimatization. At an altitude of 4,285 meters, the team faced the challenges of temperature changes and a significant decrease in oxygen levels. In this place, they adapt to cold temperatures and low air pressure, which is one of the toughest tests during the climb.
On the morning of the third day, the group was released by Dansat Brimob Papua Police Commissioner Pol John.S. Sitanggang, S.I.K., M. Han and Danmen 1 of Brimob Troop 3 pioneer Pol Kombes Danu Windarto S.I.K., in Bale Dam, an area owned by PT Freeport Indonesia. At 11.00 WIT, they started climbing the steep and long climbing route to basecamp. This route crosses several lakes, starting from Lake 1 at 12.00 WIT, then Lake 2 and Lake 3 until finally arriving at basecamp at 15.00 WIT. Throughout the journey, the group was faced with hostile weather, with temperatures reaching 2 degrees Celsius and hail which added to the challenge.
Arriving at basecamp, the team immediately set up tents and went back to rest to restore energy. Although some members experienced symptoms of dizziness and shortness of breath due to the lack of oxygen, they had been prepared with medication and additional oxygen to overcome these conditions.
On the day they had been waiting for, at 08.00 WIT, the team started their journey again to the peak of Jayawijaya. The 2 km long path that must be traversed has its own challenges, with steep cliffs and rocks that fill the path. Luckily, the clear weather that morning helped speed up the team’s pace.
Arriving at the ice tongue at 11.30 WIT, the group used the ice climbing equipment that had been prepared. They attached crampons to their shoes, secured ropes to their body harnesses, and held tight to their ice axes and climbing poles. At 11.45 WIT, with high coordination and a spirit of togetherness, they moved orderly towards the top.
Finally, at exactly 12.00 WIT, the entire group arrived at the top of the ice. At the highest peak in Indonesia, the Red and White flag is hoisted with pride, accompanied by respect for our beloved homeland. A proud and touching moment, a symbol of the unity and fighting spirit of the Indonesian nation.
After successfully raising the flag, the group immediately descended to basecamp with hail again greeting them. At 14.30 WIT, they arrived at basecamp to rest and break down the tent. After ensuring all the equipment was ready to be brought back, the team continued their journey down to Bale Dam at 15.30 WIT.
Even though heavy rain accompanies the entire journey down, the group should arrive at Bale Dam at 19.00 WIT and will be warmly welcomed by Dansat Brimob Polda Papua Police Commissioner John.S. Sitanggang, S.I.K., M. Han and Danmen 1 of Brimob Troop 3 pioneer Kombespol Danu Windarto S.I.K., After that, they will continue their journey back to Headquarters Battalion B Pioneer of the Papua Police Mobile Brigade. With all the challenges they may face, the entire team should arrive safely at 23.30 WIT, bringing home epic stories and pride as the nation’s best sons.
This epic journey is not just a climbing expedition, but is also a symbol of the spirit and strength of the Indonesian nation. In every step and struggle towards the top, there is a message of togetherness, unity and never-ending fighting spirit. The raising of the Red and White flag at the top of Mount Carstensz is clear proof that under the Indonesian flag, every challenge can be conquered with a spirit of togetherness and struggle.
Head of Public Relations Task Force for Peace Ops Cartenz 2024, Police Commissioner. Bayu Suseno, S.H., S.I.K., M.M., M.H., expressed his pride and appreciation to all team members who had participated in this climb.
“This trip is proof of our fighting spirit and dedication as a nation. I would like to thank all the team members who have fought hard to raise our flag at the highest peak in Indonesia. This is the most beautiful gift for our 79th Independence Day,” he said .
