Jayapura — Fran Reynould Thejo, a youth leader and Chairman of the Tabi Indigenous Youth Presidium for Jayapura City, shared his views regarding the recent series of student actions taking place across Papua.
Accompanied by the Secretary of the Tabi Indigenous Youth Presidium for Jayapura City, Jhon Meraudje, and the Head of General Affairs, Sandy Hanasbey, Fran stated that students, as agents of change, should act more wisely and critically in responding to government policies and social issues within the community.
“We invite our fellow students to be wiser in viewing every policy and issue that arises. It’s important to understand the substance of each policy, not just join movements without clear direction,” he said.
Furthermore, Fran Reynould highlighted the importance of supporting the National Strategic Programs (PSN), which he believes have brought positive impacts on development in Papua.
“The National Strategic Programs should be supported because they aim to accelerate economic growth, ensure equitable regional development, improve people’s welfare, and reduce poverty and inequality,” he explained.
He also reminded students not to be easily provoked by issues that could cause division or harm themselves and their communities.
“Students should not be easily provoked or influenced by misleading issues. However, if it concerns the rights of the people being harmed, please convey your aspirations to the government — but always within the boundaries of the law,” the youth leader emphasized.
Fran stressed that expressing aspirations must comply with Law Number 9 of 1998 concerning the Freedom to Express Opinions in Public, so that messages delivered can be received properly and effectively.
“If we express our aspirations in a proper, orderly, and lawful manner, both the government and the public will find it easier to understand and accept our intentions,” he added.
Concluding his statement, Fran Reynould urged students to maintain peace and order during demonstrations or public expressions of opinion.
“I want to remind my fellow students — let’s maintain security together. Every act of expressing opinions should be done peacefully, safely, and with dignity, so that student struggles continue to be respected and bring positive benefits to society,” he concluded.
