By: Martha Korowai (Quoted from betawipos.com)
Papua – Development in Papua has become a significant agenda under President Joko Widodo’s leadership since he took office in 2014. Under the leadership of Indonesia’s seventh president, Papua is viewed not only as a region that requires special attention but also as an integral part of Indonesia that needs equitable development. This initiative focuses on enhancing welfare, economic independence, and infrastructure access in the region known as the “Little Paradise” at the eastern tip of Indonesia.
During President Jokowi’s administration, Indonesia’s development policy shifted from a Java-centric approach to an Indonesia-centric one. The development of Papua has become a priority to reduce regional disparities.
This is evident from various infrastructure projects that have been implemented, such as the construction of the Trans Papua road, airports, and port developments that facilitate connectivity across the region. This accessibility is key to driving economic progress in Papua and integrating it with national growth.
Vice President Ma’ruf Amin stated that development efforts in Papua have become one of the government’s main priorities. The commitment to achieving welfare and independence in the region aligns with the Indonesia-centric principle championed by President Jokowi.
According to the Vice President, development in Papua is not solely about building physical infrastructure but also encompasses holistic social, economic, and cultural development. Empowering local communities and enhancing the quality of human resources are equally important focuses. Through these strategies, it is hoped that this region, referred to as the “Golden City,” can grow into an independent and prosperous area.
The government, through cross-sector coordination, is also emphasizing integrated planning in the execution of development in Papua. The Minister of National Development Planning, Suharso Monoarfa, explained that the government collaborates with various parties, from ministries and agencies to local governments and community leaders in Papua, to ensure that every aspect of development runs smoothly.
This planning prioritizes sound financial management, so that development in this “Little Paradise” in Eastern Indonesia can be sustainable and provide tangible benefits for the community.
One tangible result of the development in Papua is the improvement of infrastructure that directly boosts the local economy. The airports built and expanded in Papua not only open access for logistics but also enhance tourism potential, which has not yet been maximized.
With its abundant natural resources, Papua has great potential as a world-class tourist destination. Therefore, improving air transportation access is a crucial first step to introducing Papua to the international community. On the other hand, ground routes, particularly with the presence of the Trans Papua road, facilitate mobility between regions and ease the distribution of goods and services.
Additionally, the agriculture and fisheries sectors are receiving increased attention from the government. The budget allocation for agricultural development in Papua demonstrates that the government recognizes the significant potential of the region in supporting national food security.
Sulaeman L. Hamzah, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives’ Commission IV, emphasized that development in Papua, especially in the agricultural sector, has been a priority for the past decade. Various programs to enhance the productivity of local farmers have been implemented to empower the local population.
The government is also encouraging improved fisheries yields in coastal areas, given Papua’s abundant marine resources. More efficient management of marine resources is expected to uplift the economy of coastal communities and strengthen local economic resilience.
Not only in infrastructure and economic sectors, but the government is also striving to improve the quality of human resources in Papua through education. The construction of schools and educational facilities in the region is expected to address the challenges of low access to education in remote areas.
Educational scholarships for outstanding Papuan students have become one of the flagship programs launched during President Jokowi’s administration. Through this program, Papuan children have the opportunity to continue their education at universities in various cities across Indonesia, and even abroad. It is hoped that these graduates will return and contribute to advancing the region often referred to as the “Heavenly Paradise.”
The central government is also collaborating with local governments to ensure that development programs align with the needs of local communities. The approach used is not only top-down but also bottom-up, where the aspirations of the Papuan people serve as the foundation for planning development.
With this approach, it is hoped that the Papuan community feels ownership of the development process and participates in managing local resources to achieve economic independence.
With all the achievements and ongoing programs, the development of Papua under President Jokowi’s leadership exemplifies the government’s commitment to creating welfare and independence for all Indonesian citizens. Papua, as a region rich in natural resources and culture, is now looking towards a brighter future, with a foundation of development that is continually strengthened year after year.
*) Consultant for Indigenous Community Empowerment – Papua People’s Development Institute
