Jayawijaya, Papua Highlands — A prominent youth figure in the Papua Highlands and Chairman of the Papua Catholic Youth Commission, Melianus Asso, has called on the younger generation across the region to take an active role in driving development and safeguarding peace.
The appeal comes as communities continue to face challenges in the aftermath of last year’s democratic elections.
According to Asso, the election of new leaders in the Papua Highlands should serve as momentum to accelerate progress in multiple sectors. He emphasized that youth participation is essential, not only as future leaders but also as strategic partners of the government in delivering tangible solutions for society.
“As young people with intellectual capacity, we must respond to ongoing dynamics wisely and present concrete solutions. The goal is to ensure that the Papua Highlands can soon stand on equal footing with other regions in Indonesia,” Asso said on Wednesday (August 27, 2025).
He stressed the importance of youth integrity and unity in supporting development programs. With peace and stability, Asso envisions the Papua Highlands becoming a welcoming region for investment and open to business actors willing to collaborate with local communities.
Nonetheless, he acknowledged the challenges that persist, including incidents of violence in several areas. Such conditions, he noted, are often triggered by various factors—ranging from individual actions and group activities to policies whose impacts are not yet fully felt by the people.
“Young people must act as peacekeepers within society. Do not be easily provoked by misleading or divisive narratives. Instead, we must stand as messengers of peace and enlightenment,” he added.
