Entering the Interior of Papua to Bring Smiles to the Sick

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The sound of TNI soldiers’ footsteps echoed as they entered villages in the remote areas of Central Papua on Tuesday (5/5/2026). They did not come for combat operations, but rather brought medicine kits, health examination equipment, and medical personnel for residents who have long struggled to access healthcare facilities. In several regions such as Wangbe, Oksibil, Dugume, Quary Bawah, and Hitadipat, soldiers from the TNI’s Habema Operational Command directly visited local settlements. The difficult terrain and limited transportation access make healthcare services in those areas hard for the community to reach. In photos shared by the TNI’s Information Centre, numerous residents were seen queuing to have themselves checked. Some brought their children, while elderly individuals arrived with family assistance. Two TNI soldiers were seen providing healthcare to residents in a remote Papua village. Aulia stated that the healthcare services were conducted to assist the community in overcoming difficulties in accessing medical care. “The healthcare services provided include general examinations, medical consultations, preventive actions, and health education for communities in remote Papua,” said Aulia. According to him, residents showed enthusiasm from the moment the soldiers arrived at the villages designated for healthcare services. “Through these healthcare services, the TNI aims to help the community receive direct examinations, treatments, and health education,” Aulia added.