In the remote highlands of Papua, where mist veils mountains at dawn and dense forests cloak the valleys, a quiet transformation is taking root. For decades, this easternmost region of Indonesia has often existed on the periphery of national discourse—distant in geography and frequently in policy. But as Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka’s administration marks its first year in power, a new narrative is emerging from the heart of Papua: one of recognition, infrastructure, and inclusion.
This shift is not merely symbolic. From regional leaders to grassroots figures, Papuans are beginning to speak of genuine change—of government programs that reach remote villages, a more humane approach to security, and political recognition that places Papua not on the fringe, but at the forefront of Indonesia’s developmental agenda.
An Evolving Relationship: Jakarta and Papua in the Prabowo-Gibran Era
Historically, the relationship between the central government in Jakarta and the provinces of Papua and West Papua has been fraught with tension, mistrust, and inequality. Yet under Prabowo-Gibran’s administration, signs of recalibration have emerged. One of the most telling indicators has been the establishment of a special executive committee focused solely on Papua’s autonomy—the Komite Eksekutif Otonomi Khusus Papua.
This move, widely welcomed by Papuan intellectuals and activists, represents a significant shift in how Jakarta views its eastern territories. As reported by JPNN, Hironimus Hilapok, Director of Satu Honai Indonesia, described the new relationship as a “fresh dawn,” one that goes beyond rhetoric and into structural change. He believes the current administration is taking steps to ensure Papua’s special autonomy is not only protected but made more effective—placing indigenous Papuans at the center of policymaking.
From Roads to Rice: The Tangible Impact of Government Programs
But what does this look like on the ground? According to Martinus Demetouw, a respected Papuan community leader, it means rural villages receiving quality seeds, building materials, and better food distribution systems—something they say hasn’t been felt in previous years. “Now we can plant on our own land,” he said, as quoted by JPNN, adding, “We’re proud. Because in the era of Prabowo-Gibran, aid is reaching all the way to our villages.”
These developments aren’t isolated. Across Papua, people are reporting improvements in basic infrastructure: smoother roads connecting remote areas to towns, housing assistance schemes, and food logistics reaching previously cut-off districts. In Jayapura, the city government said the first anniversary of Prabowo-Gibran’s administration is being taken as “a motivation to work harder,” indicating that even regional bureaucracies are feeling renewed direction from the national level.
A Human-Centered Security Approach
Security remains one of Papua’s most sensitive issues. For decades, the region has experienced friction between local populations and military or police forces. However, one of the most notable shifts in Prabowo-Gibran’s first year—highlighted in a report by Okezone News—is a move toward a more human-centered security policy.
Rather than focusing solely on military presence, the new approach integrates economic support, community engagement, and protection of civil rights. “TNI-Polri are no longer just here to impose order. They are engaging in humanitarian work, supporting education, and helping secure development,” says Malkin Kosepa, a youth leader from Fakfak.
This is significant. By moving away from purely repressive tactics and adopting policies that aim to win hearts and minds, the government is fostering greater trust. It’s a delicate balance—maintaining order while building community—but early feedback suggests progress is being made.
Leadership Presence: Symbolism Meets Strategy
One of the enduring complaints from Papua in the past has been a lack of attention from Jakarta’s top brass. However, President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran have visited Papua multiple times during their first year—including stops in Merauke and the border town of Sota. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka also made a working visit to Jayapura, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to building from Indonesia’s “periphery to center.”
These visits are more than ceremonial. According to Charles Kossay, a prominent Papuan academic and political observer, they serve as powerful symbols that the government is serious about including Papua in its national vision. “Papua has become a true priority,” he told Liputan6, “and that gives us hope for justice and equitable development.”
Notably, Gibran has been appointed Chair of the Steering Committee for Papua’s Special Autonomy Acceleration Body, a position that underscores the administration’s intent to ensure continuity and action, not just policy papers.
Infrastructure, Food, and Dreams: Building Blocks of a Better Future
Infrastructure development is often seen as the easiest way to measure government success. In Papua, where mountainous terrain and thick forest hinder transport, road access is revolutionary. As reported by Jawa Pos, villagers now talk about smoother journeys between towns and sub-districts, enabling better trade, education, and healthcare access.
But more than roads, it is food security that stands out. Programs for agricultural training, seed distribution, and localized food storage are helping reduce Papua’s dependency on costly imports. In a place where logistics can increase food prices exponentially, this shift is transformative. “Swasembada pangan”—food self-sufficiency—is no longer just a dream but an emerging reality in many districts, according to community members interviewed by MetroTV.
High Expectations, But Cautious Optimism
Still, it would be naive to assume that all is resolved. Papuan leaders continue to voice concerns about inclusivity, the long-term sustainability of programs, and the need for greater indigenous participation in decision-making. Charles Kossay has warned that while appreciation is warranted, the government must deepen collaboration with religious leaders, youth groups, and cultural institutions.
As history has shown, top-down policies rarely succeed in Papua without local involvement. The challenge for Prabowo-Gibran’s administration will be to maintain momentum, scale up local capacity, and avoid falling into the traps of over-centralization.
Public Satisfaction: The Numbers Speak
Public perception, however, appears favorable. A recent national survey cited by Jawa Pos reports that over 78% of Indonesians are satisfied with Prabowo-Gibran’s performance in his first year. While no separate figure for Papua was released, testimonials and local reports suggest similar trends—particularly when it comes to direct aid and improved services.
The administration’s ability to bring measurable change to Papua may become one of its defining achievements. If sustained, it could set a new precedent for how Indonesia treats its border regions—not as security risks, but as integral parts of the national identity and future.
Conclusion
The Prabowo-Gibran administration’s first year has brought a noticeable shift in the dynamic between Papua and the central government. Through infrastructure development, improved logistics, local empowerment, and a more humane approach to governance, Papua is beginning to feel seen—and heard—by Jakarta.
But this is only the beginning. For true change to take root, the government must not only maintain its commitments but also deepen them: ensuring indigenous representation, protecting local cultures, and delivering on promises made in the name of justice and development.
Still, for the first time in many years, the tone from Papua is hopeful. In the words of community leader Martinus Demetouw: “This is the first time we feel the government is truly working for us, from our cities to our villages.” If that sentiment grows stronger over the next four years, Prabowo-Gibran’s administration may be remembered not only as a military man but also as a leader who helped bridge Indonesia’s farthest gap.
