Indonesian Army Builds Clean Water Points and Power Sources for Papua Residents
The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is working to build water source points and electricity sources for residents of Wamena, Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Pegunungan. This was carried out by sending equipment to build water points and power sources from Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, East Jakarta, on Tuesday (23/6).
Army Chief of Staff (KSAD) General TNI Maruli Simanjuntak, quoted from a written statement in Jakarta on Wednesday, said the infrastructure development is part of the ‘TNI Manunggal Air dan Papua Terang’ programme. ‘We want to ensure that the presence of the state is truly felt by all Indonesian people, including our brothers and sisters in Papua. Through the Manunggal Air and Papua Terang Programme, the Army is not only building facilities, but also bringing hope, health, education, and a better future for the community,’ said Maruli.
Maruli stated that the Army dispatched several supporting pieces of equipment for the construction, including one hydraulic water drilling machine, one diesel water circulation pump, water circulation devices, dozens of drill rods, various types of hoses, special drill bits, and other technical equipment to be used in building clean water points. In addition, Maruli continued, the Army also sent dynamos and turbo generators to support the provision of electrical energy in the target areas.
Once the power sources are installed, the Army will send electronic equipment useful for community needs. ‘The shipment consists of 12 television units, 12 satellite dishes, 24 mini Bluetooth radios, and 24 portable speakers complete with microphones, which will be utilised to support the community’s educational, social, and religious activities,’ he said. Maruli confirmed that these electronic goods will be sent on the next flight because the capacity of the aircraft that departed yesterday was insufficient.
With this variety of assistance, he hopes the community will find it easier to obtain clean water to meet their daily needs. He also expects the power sources sent can be used for lighting in the environment, making it easier for residents to carry out activities at night. ‘Through the synergy of the Army and the Air Force, this various support is expected to provide real benefits while improving the welfare of the Papuan people,’ said Maruli.