SINAK, INTAN JAYA — Amidst the challenging terrain, personnel from the Cartenz-2026 Peace Operation Task Force chose a different approach: engaging, not just securing. On Thursday (March 19), armed personnel went directly to Sinak District, interacting and playing with children as part of a strategy to build community trust.
This patrol activity was carried out by personnel from the Cartenz Peace Task Force in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, targeting civilians, especially children, as the entry point for a humanistic approach.
Instead of just routine patrols, officers were seen mingling—greeting residents, chatting, even inviting children to play and sharing snacks. These simple interactions were an effective way to bridge the psychological distance between officers and the community, who had been living in the shadow of conflict.
The Head of the Cartenz-2026 Peace Operation, Inspector General of Police Dr. Faizal Ramadhani, Sos, SIK, MH, emphasized that this step is part of a persuasive strategy that continues to be prioritized.
“The security approach cannot be solely repressive. We are here to provide a sense of security while also building emotional closeness with the community,” he said.
Similarly, Deputy Chief of Operations, Senior Commissioner Adarma Sinaga, SIK, Mhum., said direct interaction is key to creating long-term stability.
“Public trust is the main foundation. From there, a conducive public order and security situation can be built naturally,” he said.
Residents have welcomed the presence of officers, who are perceived as more open and humane. Children, who initially appeared awkward, gradually showed enthusiasm, even competing to approach them for interaction.
These patrols are also used to convey messages about public order and security (kamtibmas) and encourage residents to play an active role in protecting the environment.
Through this approach, the Cartenz Peace Task Force not only carries out security functions, but also builds social bridges—changing perceptions, strengthening the state’s presence, and instilling a sense of security from the simplest of things: the smiles of children on the front lines of Papua.
