Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day is more than a ceremonial milestone. It represents eight decades of resilience, struggle, and progress for a nation of over 270 million people. In Papua, where issues of separatism, development, and cultural identity have long shaped the local narrative, the anniversary carries even deeper meaning.
For Ali Kabiay, Chair of Pemuda Mandala Trikora and Secretary-General of Barisan Merah Putih, this year’s commemoration is not just a day of festivities. It is a call to reaffirm unity, reject separatism, and strengthen the foundations of peace and prosperity in Papua. His message comes at a time when Papuans, especially the younger generation, are seeking clarity about their place in the nation’s future.
“A Moral Call for Unity”
In his official statement, Ali Kabiay emphasized that the 80th Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia should be understood as a “moral call” for every citizen. It is not merely about raising the red-and-white flag but about protecting the values of independence itself.
“This anniversary must remind us of our responsibility to safeguard unity and the integrity of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia,” he said, stressing that peace in Papua can only be achieved if citizens remain united.
Ali Kabiay highlighted that Papua’s beauty and potential could only shine when divisions are set aside. His statement echoed across the nation, resonating not only with Papuans but also with Indonesians in other regions who view Papua as an integral part of the national identity.
Papua: A Land of Promise
Ali’s remarks went beyond political symbolism. He painted a vivid picture of Papua’s future—a land where peace replaces conflict, and prosperity replaces marginalization.
“I hope our brothers and sisters across Indonesia, and even those abroad, continue to pray for and support Papua as a region that is more peaceful, more advanced, and more beautiful,” he said.
This statement reflects the collective dream of Papuans: a future where the region is no longer defined by conflict but by opportunities—better schools, hospitals, jobs, and infrastructure that allow communities to flourish.
Indonesia Emas 2045: Linking Papua to the National Vision
Kabiay’s narrative aligns closely with Indonesia’s long-term roadmap known as “Indonesia Emas 2045”—the vision of a prosperous, just, and dignified Indonesia on its centennial. He emphasized the importance of including Papua in this national journey.
By positioning Papua within this broader framework, Kabiay sends a powerful message: Papua’s future is Indonesia’s future. The dreams of Papuan youth must be tied to the same national aspirations that guide other provinces. In his words, Indonesia must become a “rapidly developing country with a population that is prosperous, moral, and dignified.”
Rejecting the Separatist Narrative
While his speech was filled with hope, Ali Kabiay also drew a firm line: Papua’s future cannot be built on separatism.
For decades, the Free Papua Movement (OPM) and its armed wing, often referred to as the KKB (Armed Criminal Groups), have promoted the idea of Papuan independence. However, their actions—often marked by violence—have created insecurity for ordinary Papuans. Schools have been burned, health workers attacked, and infrastructure projects sabotaged.
Ali Kabiay strongly rejected these agendas, warning that separatist movements bring nothing but suffering. He urged Papuans not to be lured by provocations, hoaxes, or misleading narratives spread by separatist groups.
“Separatism is not the answer. It divides our people, disrupts peace, and hinders our progress,” Kabiay emphasized.
This rejection of separatism reflects a growing sentiment among Papuan community leaders, church figures, and youth organizations, who believe that peace and prosperity are only achievable within the framework of the Indonesian state.
The Price of Division
The separatist conflict in Papua is not only political—it has deeply human costs. Civilians often bear the brunt of clashes between separatist groups and security forces. Villagers are displaced, children lose access to schools, and healthcare becomes disrupted in conflict zones.
For Kabiay, this cycle of violence must end. He stressed that every act of separatist provocation takes Papua further away from development. Instead of progress, communities are left in fear.
His message resonates with young Papuans who increasingly recognize that education, economic empowerment, and peace are the true vehicles of freedom—not armed conflict.
A Youthful Vision for Papua
As Chair of Pemuda Mandala Trikora, Ali Kabiay places great importance on the role of youth in shaping Papua’s future. He has repeatedly warned young Papuans not to be manipulated by separatist propaganda on social media or by outside groups with hidden agendas.
He argues that Papuan youth are the backbone of Indonesia’s future, especially as the country moves toward 2045. By focusing on skills, entrepreneurship, and education, young Papuans can position themselves as leaders of innovation, culture, and progress—not conflict.
“The future of Papua is in the hands of its youth. They must be builders of peace, not carriers of division,” he said in a previous community dialogue.
Development as the Antidote to Separatism
Experts often note that separatist sentiments in Papua are fuelled not just by ideology but by socio-economic disparities. Lack of infrastructure, limited access to quality healthcare, and education gaps have long been exploited by separatist groups to spread their influence.
The Indonesian government has made significant investments in Papua over the past two decades—roads, airports, ports, and telecommunications projects are being expanded to connect remote areas. Special autonomy funds are directed to education and health programs, though challenges remain in implementation.
Ali Kabiay believes that development is the strongest antidote to separatism. When Papuans experience tangible improvements in daily life—better schools, functioning clinics, electricity in villages—they are less likely to be swayed by separatist rhetoric.
Building Peace Through Dialogue and Tolerance
Beyond infrastructure, Kabiay emphasizes the importance of dialogue and tolerance. He calls on community leaders, religious figures, and youth organizations to act as peacekeepers in their respective communities.
He also highlights Pancasila, Indonesia’s state ideology, as the moral foundation for harmony in a multicultural society. With hundreds of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions, Indonesia’s strength has always been its diversity. For Kabiay, embracing that diversity is the only way forward for Papua.
Papua’s Strategic Role in the Nation
Papua is not only rich in culture and biodiversity but also in natural resources. Its gold, copper, forests, and marine wealth make it a vital part of Indonesia’s economic future. However, without peace and unity, these resources cannot fully benefit the people.
Ali Kabiay’s statements remind us that Papua’s integration into Indonesia is not just a political fact—it is a strategic necessity. By securing peace in Papua, Indonesia secures its path toward becoming a stronger nation on the global stage.
Toward a Peaceful and Dignified Future
The 80th Independence Day is not only about looking back at history but also about charting a course for the future. Ali Kabiay’s call for unity and rejection of separatism offers a blueprint for what Papua can become:
- A land of peace, where conflicts no longer rob children of their futures.
- A land of prosperity, where natural wealth benefits local communities.
- A land of dignity, where Papuans are recognized as equal citizens shaping Indonesia’s golden century.
His message is clear: Papua’s future is inseparable from Indonesia’s future.
Conclusion
As Indonesia celebrates 80 years of independence, the nation stands at a pivotal moment. For Papua, the path forward is not through division, but through unity, peace, and shared prosperity.
Ali Kabiay’s voice reflects the aspirations of countless Papuans who want to see their land flourish—not as a battlefield of separatism, but as a beacon of peace within Indonesia. His call to reject the separatist agenda of the OPM is both a warning and an invitation: a warning against the dangers of division and an invitation to build a better future together.
Eighty years after independence, Indonesia’s greatest strength remains its unity. And in that unity, Papua finds its hope.