Jayapura – The commitment to fostering fair and sustainable development in Papua continues to be strengthened. The Ministry of Finance (MoF) of the Republic of Indonesia, together with the Papua Provincial Government, discussed strategies to reinforce regional fiscal capacity as part of efforts to optimize the utilization of central government transfer funds, accelerate regional development, and improve public welfare.
The Director General of Fiscal Balance at the Ministry of Finance, Askolani, stated that the meeting reflected the central government’s commitment to ensuring that state budget allocations deliver tangible benefits to the people of Papua.
“Papua has unique geographical and social characteristics, which require a more adaptive, targeted, and equitable fiscal approach,” Askolani said after the meeting at the Papua Governor’s Office in Jayapura on Monday.
According to him, strengthening regional fiscal capacity is not merely about the size of budget allocations, but also about the quality of spending, the accuracy of program design, and the direct impact on people’s daily lives.
“Strong synergy between the central and regional governments is essential to ensure that fiscal policies can enhance public welfare, create economic opportunities, and strengthen the self-reliance of Papuan communities,” he added.
Askolani further emphasized that effective coordination in proposing priority programs is expected to promote more transparent and efficient regional financial governance, while also supporting inclusive development.
During the working visit, the Ministry of Finance delegation also conducted field visits to several development programs based on local potential, including a smoked fish production facility in Jayapura Regency and fisheries equipment assistance for Indigenous Papuan fishermen in Jayapura City.
“We want to directly observe how transfer funds are being utilized to drive productive economic activities within local communities,” he said.
He expressed hope that the growing synergy between the central and regional governments would further accelerate sustainable development in Papua and help create a more prosperous future for future generations.
Meanwhile, Head of the Regional Financial and Asset Management Agency (BPKAD) of Papua Province, Rusdianto Abu, explained that the total regional transfer funds (TKD) derived from Special Autonomy (Otsus) funds and the Additional Infrastructure Fund (DTI) for the 2026 fiscal year amounted to Rp554.6 billion, reflecting an adjustment compared to the previous year.
Despite the decrease in allocation, Rusdianto affirmed that the Papua Provincial Government remains committed to managing the budget effectively and in the best interests of the community, particularly in strategic sectors such as education, health, and local economic empowerment.
“With proper management, the available funds can continue to serve as a key driver of development and improvements in the quality of life for the people of Papua,” he said.
Through strong collaboration between the central and regional governments, Papua is expected to continue moving forward as a land of peace, prosperity, and hope.
