Papuan Tribal Chiefs Call for Unity as Foundation for Prosperity
A number of Papuan traditional leaders are urging the community to maintain peace, unity, and security stability as the primary foundation for accelerating development and increasing the welfare of the people in Papua.
According to the leaders, a safe environment is a prerequisite for various development programmes to run optimally and provide benefits to all citizens.
Yakonias Adii, the Tribal Chief of the Mee people in Nabire Regency, urged the people of Central Papua to collectively maintain security and avoid being easily provoked by information that has the potential to divide unity. He emphasised that a conducive condition would provide space for the community to carry out economic, educational, and social activities normally.
“With a safe situation, mothers can sell peacefully in the markets, fathers can farm and work comfortably, and children can attend school to prepare for the future and build Papua,” said Yakuna, as reported on Monday, 29 June 2026.
He also expressed his rejection of various acts of arson or the destruction of state and public facilities, as such actions only harm the wider community. In his view, the destruction of public facilities will hinder the delivery of education, health services, and various ongoing development programmes.
Yakonias invited the entire community to prioritise dialogue in resolving every issue and to leave the handling of security matters to the authorities in accordance with applicable legal provisions.
“Peace is very important. Without peace, the community cannot carry out activities calmly and comfortably,” he asserted.
In line with this, the Chairman of the Papuan Indigenous Entrepreneurs Chamber (KAPP), Esau Saweri, invited all indigenous Papuan entrepreneurs, intellectuals, and community leaders to strengthen synergy in overseeing various strategic programmes from both the central and regional governments aimed at accelerating Papua’s development.
According to Esau, all elements of society need to respond to social dynamics wisely by filtering information selectively to avoid being influenced by issues that could trigger division. He assessed that community unity is an important asset in creating a healthy investment climate, increasing business confidence, and opening more economic opportunities for the people of Papua.
The call from these traditional leaders reinforces that peace is the primary capital for realising a safe, advanced, and prosperous Papua through sustainable development and collaboration among all elements of society.