Mamberamo National Park: The Last Stronghold of Biodiversity in Papua

PAPUA – In a historic moment, the Minister of Environment and Forestry (LHK), Siti Nurbaya, officially declared the establishment of Mamberamo National Park. This national park is situated across three provinces in Papua: Papua Province, Central Papua Province, and Papua Mountains Province, encompassing an area of 1.7 million hectares spread over 12 districts.

The transformation of the Mamberamo Foja Wildlife Sanctuary into Mamberamo National Park is envisioned as the final stronghold in the effort to conserve biodiversity in Indonesia, particularly in Papua. Siti Nurbaya emphasized the importance of this area as a refuge for various species, including the iconic birds of paradise and other rare fish.

During her speech, Siti Nurbaya explained that over the past decade, the Ministry of LHK has implemented numerous programs and initiatives aimed at strengthening the management of conservation areas. Through innovation, collaboration, and the enactment of policies, KLHK is committed to optimizing the management of natural resources.

“With the enactment of Law No. 32 of 2024, which amends Law No. 5 of 1990, the government is reinforcing three pillars of conservation: preservation areas, law enforcement, and community participation in the management of natural resources,” Siti Nurbaya stated during the press conference.

She also expressed appreciation for the support from various stakeholders, including local government leaders and indigenous communities, who have provided recommendations to support the change in the status of the wildlife sanctuary. “This is the result of cooperation and participation from all parties,” she added.

In response to the declaration, the Regent of Mamberamo Raya, Yimin Weya, emphasized the importance of involving local communities in the management of Mamberamo National Park. “We hope that this national park will not only serve as a conservation area but also bring economic benefits and enhance the capacity of local human resources, particularly in forestry and tourism,” he said.

With the declaration of Mamberamo National Park, there is hope that all relevant parties can collaborate to preserve biodiversity while also improving the welfare of the communities surrounding the area.