The appointment of Sulastiana as Deputy Chief of the Papua Barat (West Papua) Regional Police marks an important moment in the evolving relationship between law enforcement and society in Indonesia’s easternmost regions. Her inauguration, held on 6 January 2026, was not only a formal transfer of authority but also a moment that carried expectations of change, reflection, and renewed commitment to public service.
The ceremony took place in Manokwari, the administrative center of Papua Barat, attended by senior police officials, local government representatives, and community figures. Sulastiana officially assumed the position after being entrusted with the mandate by the Indonesian National Police leadership. In her remarks following the inauguration, she emphasized that her leadership would prioritize dialogue, public service, and community engagement as essential foundations for policing in Papua Barat.
Her appointment has drawn attention not only because of her rank but also because of the approach she articulated from the outset.In a context characterized by cultural plurality, geographical obstacles, and intricate social interactions, the pronouncements of a senior police official are of considerable significance. Sulastiana’s prioritization of communication and dialogue suggests a deliberate effort to cultivate confidence between law enforcement and the populace.
Professional Background and Experience
Prior to her elevation to Deputy Chief of Police in Papua Barat, Sulastiana amassed extensive experience within the Indonesian National Police, encompassing institutional oversight, internal supervision, and organizational governance. She had previously functioned as a senior auditor within the police framework, a position demanding robust integrity, analytical acumen, and a dedication to transparency.
Her professional history has informed her comprehension of policing, viewing it not solely as a mechanism of enforcement but as a public institution necessitating accountability and responsiveness. Consequently, this viewpoint has shaped her articulated dedication to service-oriented leadership.
She has repeatedly emphasized the significance of professionalism, ethical behavior, and the upholding of human dignity in police work.
Observers have noted that her academic credentials, coupled with her experience in internal oversight, afford her a well-rounded perspective on the complexities of law enforcement. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application is considered advantageous as she assumes her new responsibilities in Papua Barat.
Papua Barat’s Distinctive Policing Environment
Policing in Papua Barat necessitates a thorough comprehension of local circumstances. The province is characterized by coastal settlements, forested regions, and isolated highland areas, where access can be challenging and infrastructure inconsistent. The communities are culturally diverse, with robust customary traditions that continue to influence social dynamics and conflict resolution strategies.
In such circumstances, conventional law enforcement protocols are insufficient. Police officers frequently assume roles as mediators, facilitators, and active listeners, particularly in regions where confidence in established institutions has been cultivated over time. A single miscommunication can exacerbate existing misunderstandings, whereas positive interaction can foster collaborative efforts.
Sulastiana’s initial pronouncements reflected an awareness of these dynamics. She emphasized that ensuring security necessitates a concurrent understanding of the social and cultural frameworks within the communities. Consequently, for her, the efficacy of policing in Papua Barat is not solely determined by enforcement results, but also by the caliber of relationships established with the local populace.
Commitment to Dialogue and Community Engagement
Sulastiana’s leadership is built around a core principle: dialogue. She’s made it clear that communication is essential for avoiding conflict and building cooperation. She believes that dialogue gives law enforcement the chance to hear what the community is saying, clear up any confusion, and work together to find solutions.
She stressed that the police shouldn’t be seen as separate from the community, but rather as an integral part of it. This reflects a wider view of community-oriented policing, where prevention, communication, and collaboration are just as important as enforcement.
Sulastiana also pointed out the need to involve traditional leaders, religious figures, and community organizations. In Papua Barat, these groups are key players in shaping public opinion and settling disputes.
Keeping lines of communication open allows the police to better reflect the community’s values and expectations.
Service as the Foundation of Authority
Sulastiana, speaking after her inauguration, emphasized that policing authority must be built on service. She viewed public trust as the most important resource for any law enforcement agency. Without it, even the most robust enforcement efforts can lose their legitimacy.
She urged her officers to approach every public interaction as a chance to show professionalism and understanding. This applies to how they respond to reports, address public complaints, and carry out routine patrols.
For Sulastiana, the little things count. They’re what color the community’s daily view of the police.
Her focus on service hits home in a place where people want law enforcement to be fair, approachable, and treat them with respect. Local leaders are cautiously hopeful that this approach could build bridges and ease friction over time.
Public and Civil Society Expectations
Sulastiana’s appointment has sparked a variety of hopes among the people of Papua Barat. Many understand that the big problems won’t be fixed quickly. Still, they see her dedication to conversation as a good sign.
Civil society groups have been vocal about the need for words to match deeds. They’re looking for the focus on dialogue to lead to real-world actions: community meetings, open communication during security operations, and a fair approach to public complaints.
Simultaneously, police officers within the organization are navigating a shift toward leadership that prioritizes engagement and service. To make sure the values expressed by leadership are actually seen in day-to-day work across the districts, internal cohesion and skill development will be key.
The Symbolic Weight of Women’s Leadership
Sulastiana’s appointment also carries a symbolic weight. As one of the few women in a senior leadership role within the Papuan police, her position signals progress in gender representation within Indonesian law enforcement.
Her ascent disrupts entrenched ideas about who leads in security, providing a clear illustration of how merit and experience can fuel career growth. For younger women in law enforcement, her rise signals that the doors to leadership are swinging wider.
Though Sulastiana herself has downplayed the symbolic nature of her position, the significance of her appointment is clear to those watching. Diverse leadership is frequently associated with broader viewpoints and more inclusive decision-making – attributes that are especially beneficial in the intricate social landscape of Papua Barat.
Navigating Security and Community Relations
Papua Barat is a place where security needs and social dynamics are deeply intertwined. Sulastiana’s strategy shows a recognition that upholding public order shouldn’t erode community trust.
She has articulated that security operations ought to be governed by principles of proportionality, transparent communication, and deference to local customs.
Her emphasis on dialogue does not signify a disregard for security obligations. Instead, it reflects the conviction that enduring stability is most effectively attained through collaborative efforts, as opposed to forceful measures. Through proactive communication, law enforcement can mitigate the potential for escalation and cultivate a collective sense of accountability for public safety.
This measured strategy is especially pertinent in regions where historical contexts have influenced public attitudes toward authority. Cultivating trust necessitates time, consistency, and a receptiveness to feedback.
Conclusion
As Sulastiana begins her tenure as Deputy Chief of Police in Papua Barat, the next several months will reveal how her vision for leadership actually plays out. Community outreach, internal teamwork, and how well she addresses public concerns will all be key in shaping how her time in office is viewed.
Her initial comments have already established a focus on service, open communication, and mutual respect. Whether these ideals become a routine part of policing will hinge on consistent effort, backing from the organization, and working together with local partners.
For Papua Barat, her appointment offers a chance to build stronger bonds of trust between the police and the community. It underscores that leadership isn’t just about giving orders; it’s also about listening, understanding, and steering institutions toward practices that benefit everyone.
