Jayapura– The Governor of Papua officially accepted the recommendation document submitted by the Tabi-Saireri Indigenous People Forum regarding the burning of the Cenderawasih crown. The meeting took place in the meeting room on the fourth floor of the Papua Governor’s Office on Friday (10/24/2025).
In his speech, the Governor expressed his appreciation and respect to all traditional figures present, and emphasized the importance of maintaining the values of Papuan customs and culture as a noble heritage that must be maintained together.
“We are grateful to God because today we can gather with traditional figures who continue to play a role in maintaining Papuan culture. I really appreciate that commitment,” said the Governor.
He emphasized that customs, religion, and government have different roles, but complement each other to create a balance in the life of the Papuan people.
“In our order of life, customs become the basis, then religion strengthens it, and the government carries out its function in public service. The three of them must go in their portions without overlapping each other,” he said.
Responding to the recommendation from the Tabi-Saireri Traditional Forum, the Governor said that his party would carefully review the contents of the recommendation, and follow up in accordance with the authority of the provincial government.
“I will study the contents of this recommendation. If it is included in the provincial authority, of course we will process it. But if it becomes a central government business, we will forward it to the relevant ministries. In principle, we agree to maintain the honor and identity of the Papuan people,” he said.
Regarding the Cenderawasih crown burning case, the Governor assessed that the action was excessive and could hurt the feelings of the indigenous people.
“Personally, I think the incident is too much. There may be an element of seeking attention, but the effect is very big because it touches a very sacred cultural symbol,” he said.
He also invited all indigenous people and figures to continue to maintain and preserve Papuan culture, so that it is not displaced by certain interests.
“I advise all traditional figures, let’s take care of our cultural heritage. Don’t be pawned by momentary interests. I hope anyone who comes to Papua can respect our customs and traditions,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Vice Chairman II of the Papuan People’s Assembly (MRP), Max Ohee, explained that the presence of MRP in the activity was only a facilitator.
According to him, MRP has the task of helping to channel the aspirations of indigenous people in accordance with the Papua Provincial government mechanism.
“Our job at MRP is to facilitate the delivery of the aspirations of the indigenous people to be in accordance with the procedure. We also continue to provide education that all forms of traditional, religious, and women’s aspirations should be channeled through MRP because there is a mechanism that is regulated in the local government,” said Max Ohee.
He added, MRP will continue to strengthen its role in providing education to indigenous people so that every aspiration can be conveyed in an orderly and dignified manner.
