TNI's Humanitarian Mission: Paving the Path for Welfare and Peace in Papua

PAPUA - The Presidential Instruction No. 9 of 2020 on the Acceleration of Welfare Development in Papua serves as the legal foundation for the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) in executing their mission in the region. This directive highlights three primary tasks: ensuring security, supporting regional governments in delivering essential services, and fostering inclusive social communication with all stakeholders in Papua.

Under this mandate, the TNI has deployed specialized Military Task Forces to accelerate the welfare development agenda in Papua. A stable and secure environment is crucial for all stakeholders and residents to effectively contribute to the region’s growth. However, ongoing security threats from the Free Papua Movement (OPM) pose significant challenges to this mission.

Baca juga: Pasipers Kodim 1702/Jayawijaya Hadiri Rapat Sosialisasi Pendataan Orang Asli Papua

The OPM’s activities, including intimidation, violence, and heinous crimes such as murder, rape, and civilian attacks, have hindered the welfare acceleration efforts. One tragic incident involved the murder of Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand helicopter pilot for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, on Monday (5/8/2024). This act underscores the OPM's threat to peace and development in Papua.

Despite such challenges, TNI remains steadfast. On Tuesday (6/8), the TNI successfully secured Alama, evacuating the bodies of victims, including Glen Conning, health workers, teachers, and infants. This humanitarian act was carried out without formal requests from the victims' families or the New Zealand Government.

Baca juga: Praktek Langsung Penanggulangan Keadaan Darurat, Koramil 1702-01/Wamena Hadir Berikan Arahan

Similarly, on Saturday (21/9/2024), TNI played a pivotal role in the release of Captain Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a Susi Air pilot who had been held hostage. Colonel Yogi Nugroho, Commander of the HABEMA Media Task Forces, stated, "The release of Captain Mehrtens demonstrates the TNI’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian values and collaboration with stakeholders to achieve a peaceful Papua."

Colonel Yogi emphasized that TNI and Polri security forces remain vigilant in safeguarding Papua from OPM threats, aligning their efforts with the government’s vision of a safe and prosperous Papua. "Our mission is to ensure that Papua becomes a region free from fear, allowing its people to thrive and progress, " he added.

Baca juga: Wujudkan Masyarakat Sehat, Satgas Yonif 512/QY Gelar Patroli Kesehatan di Kampung Tatakra

Through their dedication and humanitarian focus, the TNI reaffirms their role not only as protectors but also as enablers of hope and development in Papua.

Authenticity:
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Colonel Arh Yogi Nugroho

Baca juga: Jalin Silahturahmi dan Membangun Persaudaraan, Satgas Yonif 512/QY Sambangi Rumah-rumah Warga dan Bagikan Sembako.