In a significant gesture of bilateral goodwill and long-term partnership, Australia’s Deputy Ambassador to Indonesia, Gita Kamath, concluded a diplomatic visit to the provinces of Papua and South Papua in July 7-11, 2205. The visit, which included stops in Jayapura and Merauke, focused on strengthening cooperation in governance, supporting Indigenous Papuan welfare, and enhancing joint efforts in health, education, and sustainable development.
This visit marks another milestone in the evolving Australia–Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which prioritizes inclusive development, human rights, and regional stability — particularly in Indonesia’s easternmost provinces.
Boosting Indigenous Data Governance and Inclusive Policy-Making
One of the core objectives of Deputy Ambassador Kamath’s visit was to observe and support the ongoing registration and data collection of Orang Asli Papua (OAP) — Indigenous Papuans — in Merauke Regency. This effort, initiated by the Indonesian government, aims to ensure that government programs and social services are equitably and accurately delivered to Indigenous communities across Papua.
In a formal meeting with Merauke’s Regional Secretary, Yermias Ruben Paulus Ndiken, and local officials, Kamath emphasized the importance of transparent, inclusive, and verifiable demographic data. He noted that such data is essential for designing policies that reflect the real needs of Indigenous populations.
“Having accurate data on the Indigenous population is not only vital for public service delivery — it is key to building trust and ensuring that every Papuan has a fair share in the nation’s development,” Kamath said.
Australia, which has extensive experience in data governance, is offering technical support and best practices to Indonesian partners to ensure that the OAP data registration process is participatory, culturally sensitive, and aligned with international standards.
Improving Public Health and Nutrition for Indigenous Communities
Beyond governance and administrative reform, the Australian mission reviewed the progress of health and nutrition programs that are being jointly implemented in South Papua. These programs specifically target malnutrition, stunting, and maternal-child health among Indigenous families — issues that remain prevalent in remote and underserved parts of Papua.
Kamath visited several health centers and community-based initiatives funded by the Australian Government through its Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and implemented in cooperation with Indonesia’s Ministry of Health.
“Nutrition is foundational to human development. Australia’s support in Papua is part of our long-term commitment to improving health outcomes and giving every child, especially Indigenous Papuan children, the best start in life,” Kamath explained.
These interventions, which include the distribution of fortified food, health worker training, and community outreach campaigns, are designed to address both immediate health concerns and long-term human capital development in the region.
Reaffirming Long-Term Bilateral Commitments to Papua
Deputy Ambassador Kamath’s visit sends a strong signal of Australia’s sustained interest in Papua’s development and long-term stability. During his dialogue with Papua Provincial Government representatives in Jayapura, he reiterated that Australia’s engagement in Papua is grounded in mutual respect, partnership, and shared goals.
“Papua is a region of immense cultural richness and strategic importance. We want to see Papua thrive as part of a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous Indonesia,” he stated.
Kamath’s presence in Papua also symbolizes Australia’s broader commitment to regional peacebuilding and inclusive diplomacy, in line with its Indo-Pacific Strategy and its ongoing Pacific Step-up initiative, which promotes deeper ties with Indonesia and its eastern provinces.
Positive Reactions from Local Stakeholders
Local officials and community leaders welcomed the visit warmly, describing it as a morale boost and a sign that international cooperation can bring concrete results for remote regions. Merauke’s Regional Secretary, Yermias Ruben Paulus Ndiken expressed appreciation for Australia’s sustained interest and constructive approach to development.
“This visit affirms that we are not working in isolation. Australia’s support strengthens our programs, especially for Indigenous welfare and better health services,” he said.
Many Indigenous leaders and youth organizations in Papua also acknowledged the importance of foreign diplomatic engagement, particularly when it supports culturally appropriate development models and local capacity building.
Conclusion
The Deputy Ambassador’s visit to Papua and South Papua highlights the growing role of international partnerships in supporting Indonesia’s regional development agenda. Australia’s involvement in data governance, Indigenous welfare, and public health in Papua not only strengthens bilateral ties but also sets a model for development-focused diplomacy rooted in empathy, equity, and local empowerment.
As the region continues to navigate complex challenges of inclusion, autonomy, and development, ongoing engagement from trusted international partners like Australia remains crucial for building a peaceful and prosperous future in Papua