Mama Sinta Files Request for Protection with LPSK
Yasinta Moiwend, popularly known as Mama Sinta, an indigenous female leader of the Marind-Anim tribe in Merauke, has submitted a request for protection to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). The application was filed directly by Mama Sinta on Friday (5/6) and was received by the Vice Chairperson of LPSK, Sri Suparyati.
In an official statement, Sri explained that the protection request was filed in relation to a report made to the Metro Jaya Regional Police regarding the distribution of the documentary film ‘Pesta Babi’ (Pig Feast), which is deemed to impact her personal safety. Sri stated that Mama Sinta’s request will undergo a thorough review, ranging from the reported criminal incidents to the potential protection needs arising from her involvement in the legal process.
“Our duty is to conduct an objective assessment to determine the necessary protection, whether in the form of physical protection, psychological assistance, procedural accompaniment, or other services within the LPSK’s authority,” she stated in a written release. She noted that the LPSK will begin an initial assessment and interview Mama Sinta to deepen the understanding of the requested protection needs, which is a mandatory stage before the agency makes a decision.
The results of the assessment and review will serve as the basis for the LPSK to determine appropriate protection services in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations. Under the Witness and Victim Protection Act, protection is granted based on the significance of the testimony, analysis of threat levels or special situations, and medical or psychological assessments.
Previously, Yasinta Moiwend reported the Chairperson of the Papua Merauke Legal Aid Institute (LBH), identified by the initials JTW, to the Metro Jaya Regional Police regarding the film ‘Pesta Babi: Colonialism in Our Time’. The report is registered under number LP/B/3843/V/2026/SPKT/Polda Metro Jaya, dated 29 May 2026, involving allegations related to Articles 65 and 67 concerning Personal Data Protection.
Mama Sinta expressed deep distress over the screening of the film, which features her, stating that no permission was sought from her. “They are screening ‘Pesta Babi’ everywhere; I am deeply hurt and disappointed. Without my permission, without any discussion. They are criminals,” Mama Sinta explained. “My face is being shown everywhere in that film; it hurts me. That is why I have come to Jakarta.”
Meanwhile, Dhandhy Laksono, a producer of the film, addressed the opposition from Mama Sinta’s side via an Instagram post, claiming he was entirely unaware of the issues Mama Sinta was facing regarding the production of the film.