KEEROM, October 23, 2025 — The Chairperson of the Regional Leadership Council of the Development Policy Advocacy Network (DPD JPKP) in Keerom Regency, Hengki Sadipun, has urged the people of Papua not to be easily provoked following the recent burning of a Cenderawasih (Bird-of-Paradise) crown that has drawn public attention.
In his statement, Hengki called on community leaders, religious figures, and the public to respond to the incident with wisdom. He emphasized that the government’s actions to regulate the trade and hunting of protected species, such as the Bird-of-Paradise, should be understood as an effort to preserve the environment and uphold the law — not as an act of disrespect toward Papuan cultural symbols.
Furthermore, Hengki suggested that in the process of enforcing regulations or destroying confiscated items, the government should refrain from burning such items directly. Instead, he proposed that the seized goods be handed over to institutions with customary authority, such as the Papuan People’s Assembly (MRP) or the Papuan Customary Council, to ensure that handling remains respectful of Indigenous Papuan (OAP) cultural values.
“We must all maintain peace in the land of Papua. Let us approach this issue with a calm mind and a peaceful heart,” he said.
Hengki concluded his appeal with a message of brotherhood and a prayer for Papua’s peace:
“Let us all work together to preserve peace in the land of Papua. May God bless us all.”
