Deputy Minister: Equitable Development in South Papua Needs to Be Pushed Together

Jayapura (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister for Villages and Underdeveloped Regions (Wamendes PDT) Ahmad Riza Patria stated that equitable development in South Papua Province needs to be driven collectively. “South Papua has great potential but also substantial challenges, so access, infrastructure, and equitable development still need to be pushed together,” he said in a press release received by Antara in Jayapura on Thursday. He made the remarks during the inauguration of street lighting in Torai Village, Sota District, Merauke Regency, South Papua, on Wednesday (22/4). According to Patria, his side will convey to President Prabowo Subianto the importance of developing infrastructure, health, and education in South Papua. “However, it is hoped that the presence of this street lighting is proof that the government is present and development is not only in the cities but also reaches the villages, so this programme can hopefully continue to run,” he said. He explained that his side hopes the facilities that have been built will continue to be maintained and cared for so that they remain lit, allowing community activities, especially at night, to run smoothly. “This street lighting is not only the government’s but belongs to all the community,” he added. He further invited the local regional government to continue this programme, especially in areas that need it. “May the light we turn on now bring benefits to the community,” he said.