Indonesian minister urges priority infrastructure push in Papua

“In the Special Papua Development Planning Forum, we have considered key infrastructure needs, including ports, crucial bridges, and road repairs. Without this, harvests and logistics could be disrupted,” he said in Jakarta, citing a meeting with Merauke District Head Yoseph B. Gebze.

He added that the forum should also address infrastructure in border areas and strategic zones, such as coastal defense posts, to strengthen national security.

Pambudy emphasized that infrastructure development must integrate with border reinforcement and regional security, alongside incorporating national priority programs into Merauke’s development plans.

“Central programs, such as fishing village initiatives, should become integral to Merauke’s development. Urgent projects must come first, followed by subsequent stages,” the minister said.

Merauke District Head Yoseph B. Gebze noted Merauke’s position as a border area and Indonesia’s “eastern gateway” makes defense, connectivity, and economic growth top priorities.

“The four regional development focuses are improving human resources, optimizing natural resource management, enhancing community welfare, and aligning local planning with national and provincial policies,” he said.

As a follow-up, technical coordination will be strengthened to ensure Merauke’s development priorities are met, covering infrastructure, basic services, and border area development.

The initiative aims to support food security and promote growth across eastern Indonesia through targeted and integrated development efforts.

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Translator: M.Baqir IA, Rahmad Nasution