VP: Development in Papua is a government priority

Manokwari (ANTARA) - The Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia, Gibran Rakabuming, stated that the government will continue to accelerate national development, with Papua serving as one of the primary priorities.

While opening the 14th National Church Choir Festival (Pesparawi Nasional XIV) in Manokwari, West Papua, on Saturday night, Vice President Gibrably noted that the development process, encompassing both infrastructure and human empowerment, is no longer focused solely on Java but is being distributed across the entire Indonesian archipelago.

“Development is no longer Java-centric, but Indonesia-centric. That is why the development of Papua is one of the President’s priorities. This includes the construction of hospitals, public schools, markets, the Trans-Papua highway, the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, and fishing villages,” said Vice President Gibran Rakabuming.

“The hope for the future is that this can reduce inequality, expand access, and increase the welfare of the Papuan people,” Gibran added.

He highlighted one of the facilities constructed recently, the Borarsi Field, which is being used for the 14th National Pesparawi festivities over the coming days.

Regarding the existing infrastructure, he urged the people of Manokwari to continue to maintain and care for these facilities properly. He suggested that the community should report any damage to the local government and remind one another to ensure proper upkeep.

He further reminded that the development undertaken by various parties for the Papuan people requires a conducive and peaceful situation.

To this end, the Vice President expressed his appreciation for the messages of peace and brotherhood conveyed during the 14th National Pesparawi held in West Papua.

“This is very relevant and something we should all support together,” concluded Gibran Rakabuming.