TNI's Commitment to Supporting Prosperity Development in Papua Through Security and Humanitarian Action

Papua, MediaHabema – The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are playing a vital role in accelerating welfare development in Papua, as mandated by Presidential Instruction (Inpres) No. 9 of 2020. This directive highlights three primary missions for the TNI in the region: security support, assisting local governments in providing essential services, and fostering inclusive social communication.

As part of this mission, TNI has deployed Special Task Forces (Satgas) throughout Papua to ensure safety and stability, which are essential for successful development efforts. According to Colonel Arh Yogi Nugroho, the Commander of Media Operations at KOOPS HABEMA, maintaining peace is a top priority to allow all stakeholders and citizens to actively participate in building a better future for Papua.

However, security challenges persist due to disturbances caused by the Free Papua Movement (OPM), which often resorts to acts of violence that hinder progress.

OPM has been responsible for numerous criminal activities, including intimidation, assault, sexual violence, and even murder of civilians and security personnel. A recent example is the tragic killing of Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand helicopter pilot working for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, on August 5, 2024.

“TNI immediately secured the area of Alama and safely evacuated the remains of Pilot Glen, along with healthcare workers, teachers, and toddlers, without any formal request from the victims’ families or the New Zealand government. It was a pure act of humanitarian duty, ” stated Colonel Yogi Nugroho in an official statement to the media. Kamis (31/10/2024).

Another significant success was achieved on September 21, 2024, when TNI, in collaboration with local stakeholders, successfully rescued Captain Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a Susi Air pilot, from OPM captivity. “These actions reflect the TNI’s commitment to humanitarian principles and reinforce our efforts to create a peaceful and safe environment in Papua, ” Nugroho added.

TNI and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) remain dedicated to securing Papua, ensuring the region remains stable and free from OPM interference. This security is essential to support the Indonesian government’s welfare programs aimed at improving infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other basic services for the people of Papua.

The presence of TNI reflects a multifaceted approach not only focusing on defense but also engaging actively in humanitarian operations and local community development. Through continuous efforts to maintain peace, TNI hopes to create a better future for Papua, where its citizens can thrive in safety and prosperity.

Autentikasi: 
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Kolonel Arh Yogi Nugroho