Extension of Papua

Extension of Papua

From Media Indonesia

Presidential instruction program (Inpres) No.1/2003 on the
regional extension of Papua and the formation of several
cities/regencies has so far invited arguments that are for and
against the scheme. In fact, this program is clearly aimed at
promoting public welfare and achieving development targets in
various fields in Papua, formerly called Irian Jaya.

The instruction evolved from Law No.45/1999 on the
establishment of the provinces of West Irian Jaya, Central Irian
Jaya and East Irian Jaya, the regencies of Mikika, Painai, Puncak
Jaya and the city of Sorong, which had been suspended by Law
No.5/2000. The views voiced by some community leaders do not have
to be exaggerated because they represent only a small part of the
Papuans and they will accede to the plan as soon as it is
implemented.

The Fakfak regent and council speaker, for instance, are
enthusiastically backing the formation of a province in their
region, while several Papuan tribal chiefs have submitted their
statements of support to the interior ministry. It means that the
regional administration and people of Papua are behind the
extension program.

In order to convince the Papuans, who have mostly supported
the realization of Inpres 1/2003, and to avoid the unnecessary
expansion of the polemics on this issue, the government should
promptly carry out this policy so that the locals can soon enjoy
what they are expecting.

BAYU RICHSAN
Jakarta

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