The traditional leaders of Papua have a crucial role in maintaining peace and order in Papua. Their support for the security forces in efforts to eradicate the Free Papua Movement (OPM) is highly appreciated. In this context, Papua’s traditional leaders are key elements in building peace and stability in Papua. Their support not only has a positive impact on efforts to eliminate OPM but also creates a conducive environment for development in Papua.
One of the prominent traditional leaders in Papua who actively supports the security forces in addressing OPM is a tribal chief in the mountainous region of Papua, Markus Haluk. Markus is known for his concern for security and order in Papua. Through his leadership, he has managed to gather support from various tribes in Papua to collectively combat OPM. The actions taken by Markus Haluk and other traditional leaders have helped the security forces reduce OPM activities in their respective areas.
Besides Markus Haluk, there are many other traditional leaders in Papua who are also active in supporting the security forces in addressing OPM. They undertake various efforts, including anti-radicalization campaigns, establishment of security posts, and community outreach on the importance of maintaining security and order. All these efforts are aimed at creating a safe and conducive environment for all Papua’s residents.
Yanto Eluay, a traditional leader from Kampung Sereh, urges people to be cautious in accepting propaganda-laden information. He points out that on December 1, 1963, it was part of Dutch propaganda to incite conflict between the Papuan people and the Indonesian government. According to him, the Dutch had manipulated our elders and sowed discord among fellow Papuans, resulting in ongoing conflicts.
Therefore, he advises Papuan people to instill correct historical knowledge in the younger generation and encourages them to engage in positive activities, not to be swayed by doctrines from opposing parties.
Meanwhile, Hengky Heselo, a traditional leader from Jayawijaya, Papua Mountains Province, calls on the entire community not to respond to provocative calls or statements from separatist groups that could disrupt public safety and order. Calls from separatist groups are considered destructive and divisive, causing suffering. Hengky emphasizes that in Papua today, people live in harmony and peace with intensive development from the central government through the Special Autonomy program.
Support from Papua’s traditional leaders to the security forces in addressing OPM is also reflected in their participation in government programs aimed at improving the welfare of the Papuan people. These programs include infrastructure development, improved access to education and healthcare, and empowerment of the local economy. By supporting these programs, Papua’s traditional leaders hope to help reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for Papuan people, so they are not influenced by OPM’s calls.
Yuranus Jikwa, a traditional leader from Lapago, expresses his support for the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Police (Polri) in handling the increasingly disturbing OPM. Jikwa also emphasizes to the terrorist group members, especially those in Lapago and Mee Pago customary areas, not to shoot civilians and spread false statements in the media.
Furthermore, Boas Asa Enoch, a traditional leader from Ondofolo Sosiri, Jayapura Regency, welcomes the 2024 Police Enlisted Recruitment program, especially the opportunity for Papuan sons and daughters. This is expected to help the government maintain security stability in Papua.
Although many Papua’s traditional leaders support the security forces in addressing OPM, it cannot be denied that there are still a few traditional leaders who assist OPM. This poses a challenge for the security forces and other Papua’s traditional leaders to identify and effectively deal with them. Prevention and enforcement measures against traditional leaders involved in OPM must be done firmly and fairly, without infringing on their rights as citizens.
Despite the challenges, both the government and Papua’s traditional leaders remain optimistic that peace and reconciliation can be achieved in Papua. Collaboration between the government and indigenous communities is a crucial foundation in this effort.
The importance of respecting human rights, strengthening inter-ethnic dialogue, and promoting inclusive economic development in Papua cannot be overlooked in creating sustainable peace. The systematic and gradual efforts to eradicate OPM are concrete evidence of the joint commitment to achieve peace and reconciliation in Papua.
Overall, the support of Papua’s traditional leaders for the security forces in addressing OPM is a highly positive step in building peace and stability in Papua. Through unity, Papua’s traditional leaders, security forces, and the entire Papuan community can collectively address these challenges and create a better future for Papua.
