TNI’s Mission: Building a Safe and Prosperous Future for Papua

PAPUA - The Presidential Instruction of the Republic of Indonesia Number 9 of 2020 on the Acceleration of Welfare Development in Papua serves as the foundation for the Indonesian Armed Forces’ (TNI) operations in the region. This mandate outlines three key responsibilities for the TNI: ensuring security, supporting local governments in delivering essential services, and fostering inclusive social communication with all stakeholders in Papua.

In line with this directive, the TNI has deployed Military Task Forces to Papua, aiming to accelerate the region's welfare development. A stable and secure environment remains the cornerstone of this effort, allowing local communities and stakeholders to contribute effectively to development. However, persistent security threats from the Free Papua Movement (OPM) continue to pose significant challenges.

The OPM’s actions—ranging from intimidation, violence, and rape to brutal murders—have disrupted lives and stalled progress in Papua. A tragic example occurred on August 5, 2024, when Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand pilot for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, was killed by the OPM. Such incidents highlight the pressing need for robust security measures.

"The TNI’s swift action on August 6, 2024, secured Alama and facilitated the evacuation of Pilot Glen’s body along with health workers, teachers, and even infants—without any formal request from the victims' families or the New Zealand Government. This was purely a humanitarian effort, " stated Colonel Yogi Nugroho, Commander of the HABEMA Media Task Forces.

The TNI's commitment to humanitarian service was further demonstrated during the successful rescue of Captain Phillip Mark Mehrtens, a Susi Air pilot, on September 21, 2024. "This operation underscores the TNI’s unwavering dedication to ensuring peace and safety in Papua, in collaboration with various stakeholders, " Colonel Yogi remarked.

The TNI and Polri continue to prioritize security operations in Papua to maintain stability and support the Indonesian Government’s welfare programs. "Our mission is clear: to safeguard Papua from security threats and create a conducive environment for growth and prosperity, " emphasized Colonel Yogi.

These efforts go beyond mere security. They represent a holistic approach to uplifting Papua—addressing education, healthcare, and infrastructure while fostering a sense of unity and pride among its people. Through these initiatives, the TNI reaffirms its commitment to building a safe, peaceful, and thriving Papua within the framework of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

Autentikasi: 
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Kolonel Arh Yogi Nugroho