Papua — Ahead of Christmas 2025 and the New Year 2026, Papuan religious leaders have called on all segments of society to work together to maintain security and public order so that conditions remain conducive.
The appeal was delivered by Papuan religious leader Rev. Dr. Yones Wenda as an expression of concern for peace and unity in the Land of Papua, especially during the year-end period, which is rich in religious values and a spirit of togetherness.
Rev. Yones Wenda emphasized the importance of the role of all elements of society—including religious figures, traditional leaders, youth, and security personnel—in creating a safe and peaceful atmosphere. According to him, security stability is a key prerequisite for Christians to celebrate Christmas solemnly, and for the wider community to welcome the New Year with a sense of safety and joy.
“I, Rev. Yones Wenda, as a religious leader in the Land of Papua, always support the security forces in maintaining Papua’s conduciveness ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations,” Rev. Yones Wenda said in a statement quoted on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
He noted that synergy between the community and security forces is crucial to preventing potential security disturbances, particularly amid social dynamics that often arise ahead of major religious holidays. Support for security personnel, he said, is not merely about maintaining order, but also a form of moral responsibility to safeguard harmonious communal life.
Rev. Yones Wenda also highlighted the attention of the central government toward Papua through various policies and development programs. He stated that Papuan communities have directly felt the positive impacts of these initiatives, particularly those outlined in President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita program.
“President Prabowo has reached Papuan communities through the Asta Cita programs. We here have truly felt the benefits, allowing us all to live in peace and tranquility,” Rev. Yones Wenda concluded.
