Mimika, Central Papua — Amid ongoing security challenges and government-led development initiatives in Papua, grassroots voices are increasingly calling for active citizen participation in maintaining peace and stability across the region.
One such voice is Arnold, a respected community leader in Mimika and Secretary of the Early Awareness Forum (FKDM), who recently emphasized the crucial role of local residents in ensuring a safe and prosperous Papua. In a public statement, Arnold underscored that lasting peace and progress are only possible when communities stand united.
“I call on all Papuan citizens, especially those in Mimika Regency, to uphold order and peace. Do not easily believe in unverified information. Let us work together to keep Papua safe and peaceful,” said Arnold on Wednesday (May 21).
Arnold’s remarks come at a time when the spread of disinformation and hoaxes via social media continues to pose serious risks to social cohesion. According to him, real progress begins not with top-down policies alone, but through individual awareness and proactive engagement at the community level.
He further encouraged citizens to support the development programs currently being pursued by the Indonesian government, stressing that such efforts can only succeed with public participation and oversight.
“We urge all citizens to support the ongoing development initiatives. These efforts aim to advance Papua, and the benefits must be truly felt by everyone,” Arnold asserted.
In addition to development, Arnold also voiced strong support for law enforcement operations, particularly those carried out by the Cartenz Peace Task Force (Satgas Damai Cartenz-2025), which has been actively addressing armed group activity and political disruption in the region.
“We fully support law enforcement efforts, especially those by the Cartenz Peace Task Force. Firm action against armed groups and political actors attempting to destabilize the region must continue for the sake of public security,” he said.
Arnold’s message serves as a reminder that the success of both security and development efforts in Papua depends not only on government initiatives, but also on the collective awareness and cooperation of the people.
He concluded by expressing hope that all elements of society will unite in their efforts to build a safer, more prosperous Papua for future generations.
