Jayapura – A number of religious figures in Papua appealed to residents to maintain peace ahead of Christmas and New Year (Nataru).
Chairman of the Jayapura Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB), Pastor Alberth Yoku, who is also a member of the Papua Steering Committee for the Acceleration of Special Autonomy for Papua (BP3OKP) invited the public to celebrate Christmas simply.
He also appealed to all tribes and various religions to prepare themselves to welcome the new year with peace.
“Build mutual togetherness and respect so that peace in Papua is maintained,” he said, Monday (25/12/2023).
Rev. Alberth Yoku said that with good peace, we will become a strong unit to move into 2024 which coincides with the implementation of the Legislative Election, Presidential Election and Regional Head Election or Pilkada.
Alberth Yoku also advised the public to exercise their right to vote and avoid abstaining from voting or not voting.
“Be a good citizen by exercising your right to vote in the elections. Choose a good leader who is able to lead Indonesia and continue the accelerated development program for Papua,” he said.
On this occasion, Alberth Yoku wished him a Merry Christmas and New Year.
In line with Rev. Alberth Yoku, Father John Jonga as representative of the Jayapura Diocese said that Christmas and New Year must be in a safe and peaceful atmosphere, so that it is not only at the level of discussion, but there is truly peace in the hearts of families and society.
“All components of society must make corrections, just like us pastoral officers, both non-Papuans and native Papuans, must actively bring peace. Not just talk but prove it,” he said.
