West Papua – West Papua Province celebrated its 25th Anniversary on Saturday, October 12, 2024. Since its formation in 1999, West Papua has shown significant progress in various sectors, especially in improving people’s welfare.
The celebration was centered on the field of the West Papua Governor’s office, Arfai, led by the Acting Governor of West Papua, Drs. Ali Baham Temongmere, MTP. The ceremony was attended by various elements, ranging from ASN, vertical agencies, TNI-Polri, community organizations, students, and important regional figures.
In his speech, Pj. Governor Ali Baham recalled two historical moments for West Papua, namely October 12 as the province’s birthday and February 6 as Cultural Arts Day, which are celebrated to commemorate important moments in the journey of this region. According to him, in the 25 years of West Papua’s journey as a province, there are many important achievements that deserve appreciation, including the acceleration of the formation of Special Regional Regulations (Perdasus) and Provincial Regional Regulations (Perdasi) in accordance with the mandate of Government Regulations (PP) number 106 and 107.
“Like a ship that begins its voyage, West Papua has faced many storms, waves and rain that come and go. However, thanks to hard work and togetherness, we are able to overcome these challenges so that the government continues to run and exist,” said Ali Baham. He also expressed his gratitude to all parties who have supported the implementation of West Papua’s development, especially in the last five years which have been marked by a consistent increase in the Human Development Index (HDI).
Ali Baham emphasized the importance of increasing professionalism, discipline, and work ethic for all West Papua government officials. He also reminded all elements of the government to avoid the practices of corruption, collusion and nepotism, which are still a challenge for development in the region.
“Brothers and sisters, let us love the people and this region more. Realize this love through real work. I invite all people to actively participate in development and create conducive security, so that development in West Papua can take place well,” he added.
The series of events of the 25th Anniversary of West Papua was closed by cutting tumpeng by the Pj. Governor of West Papua who was accompanied by Pj. Head of TP PKK, Mrs. Siti Mardiana Temongmere, SE. The event was also enlivened by the release of a special West Papua Anniversary hot air balloon and the launch of an employment social security protection program for 30 thousand vulnerable workers in West Papua, as one of the local government’s efforts to ensure wider community welfare.