Promoting Sustainable Growth Through Long-Term Investment, PTFI Strengthens the Economic Foundation of Central Papua

In the last 5–10 years, the people of Central Papua, particularly in areas around PT Freeport Indonesia’s (PTFI) operations, have experienced numerous changes. From increased employment opportunities, improved access to education and healthcare services, to the growth of local businesses, PTFI’s presence is increasingly evident in daily life.

In various districts such as East Mimika, Kuala Kencana, and Tembagapura, more and more young Papuans are now working in various aspects of PTFI’s operations. Many of them are graduates of PTFI’s training programmes or scholarship recipients.

“We see proud progress. Local Papuan workers now fill increasingly diverse roles, from technical to managerial positions. This is the result of long-term investment in education and training,” said PTFI President Director, Tony Wenas.

According to internal data, the proportion of local Papuan workers now stands at 40.9%, and this figure continues to rise each year.

Economic Impact: Local Businesses Grow Alongside PTFI

In Timika, many local business owners acknowledge that partnerships with PTFI have opened doors for their business development. From transportation services, catering, local agriculture, to workshop businesses, all have felt the multiplier effect from the company’s economic activities.

One business owner, Grasella Kunong, shared that her business income has increased after participating in PTFI’s local business empowerment programme.

“Now we can employ more people from the village, and our business can regularly supply goods,” she said.

Over the past decade, PTFI has partnered with more than 400 local entrepreneurs, encouraging the creation of a more independent economic ecosystem in Central Papua.

On the education front, PTFI supports the construction of learning facilities from early childhood education to secondary schools. Thousands of students receive learning equipment assistance and other support each year. Scholarship programmes have also enabled many Papuan children to continue their education outside the region.

In the health sector, programmes addressing malaria, improving child nutrition, and strengthening health facilities in several villages are directly felt by the community.

“Health and education are the main foundations for Papua’s future. Therefore, we implement social programmes in a long-term and sustainable manner,” said Tony Wenas.