Jayapura – The release of New Zealand Susi Air pilot, Philip Mark Mehrtens, by the Indonesian government has become the subject of a thesis by a graduate of the University of Science and Technology Jayapura (USTJ).
Arafem Gwijangge, a student from Nduga Regency in Papua and a graduate of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, International Relations Department, wrote his thesis titled “The Indonesian Government’s Efforts in the Release of New Zealand Pilot Philip Mehrtens in 2023–2024.” He graduated on Thursday (October 2, 2025) at Cenderawasih Sports Hall, Jayapura City
In his study, Gwijangge examined Indonesia’s strategies, including diplomatic engagement, security operations by the police and military—particularly the Damai Cartenz Task Force—and social as well as humanitarian approaches involving Papuan traditional and religious leaders.
“The government adopted a soft approach to ensure the hostage’s safety, maintaining communication with local leaders and the New Zealand government,” he said on Friday (October 3, 2025).
Gwijangge emphasized that the release of Mehrtens on September 21, 2024, highlighted the effectiveness of combining diplomacy, security, and dialogue. He added that the case set a new benchmark for conflict management in Papua.
He also plans to publish his thesis as a book to serve as a reference for students, international relations practitioners, and policymakers.
USTJ International Relations lecturer Hendry Bakri said the research was significant because it connects diplomacy, security, and local conflict issues. “This thesis could serve as an academic reference in understanding Indonesia’s foreign policy in handling international crises,” Bakri stated.
