As the Indonesian National Police (Polri) marked its 79th anniversary, an outpouring of appreciation and support came not only from Jakarta but also from one of the country’s most dynamic and complex regions: Papua. From civil society leaders to academics and grassroots organizations, Papuans echoed a shared sentiment—recognition of Polri’s evolving role in upholding peace, justice, and social cohesion.
Polri Presisi in Papua: Not Just a Motto, but a Growing Reality
Under the leadership of General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, Polri’s transformation under the “Presisi” doctrine—predictive, responsible, and transparent policing—has begun to show tangible results in Papua. Long marked by security challenges and political tensions, the province is now witnessing growing confidence in law enforcement’s capability to act with fairness, professionalism, and humanity.
Peter G.P. Iskandar, chairman of the Indonesian Police Supporters Association (PGPI) Papua, noted that Polri’s 79th anniversary isn’t just a ceremonial date. “It reflects a journey—one that has made Polri more refined, responsive, and more committed to being a true guardian of peace in this archipelago,” he said. Iskandar credited the police with increasingly prioritizing dialogue over confrontation, supporting conflict resolution, and promoting mutual respect in diverse communities.
Pastor MPA Mauri, chairman of the Pentecostal Churches Fellowship in Papua (PGPI), expressed heartfelt appreciation for the Indonesian National Police on its 79th Bhayangkara anniversary. Mauri praised the “Polri Presisi” initiative, noting the police’s increasing professionalism, integrity, and community orientation. His gratitude extended to collaborative efforts like the “Gebyar Vaksinasi Merdeka” event, which showcased Polri’s commitment to public health and social welfare alongside local churches. Mauri affirmed that these actions reflect Polri’s vital role as a guardian of peace and unity in Papua, reinforcing trust and shared values.
Academic Perspective: Police as Custodians of Stability and Knowledge
The support wasn’t limited to civil society. Abner Krey, a leading Papuan academic, emphasized the importance of a police force that does more than enforce the law. “Polri must evolve into a pillar of not only social stability but also national intellectual development,” he said in a public statement.
Krey argued that policing in the modern age should incorporate public education, cultural understanding, and deep engagement with local wisdom and values. He encouraged continued collaboration between police and academic institutions to promote critical thinking, human rights, and civic literacy in underserved regions.
Grassroots and Organizational Endorsement
Support also came from chairman of the Development Policy Companion Network (JPKP) of Keerom Regency, Leksi Sadipun, who issued an official statement congratulating Polri on its anniversary. Their message aligned with the national theme of “Polri Presisi Towards Golden Indonesia 2045,” echoing confidence in the police’s role in safeguarding the country’s developmental ambitions.
A JPKP representative praised local police for fostering trust with indigenous communities and tackling everyday issues such as road safety, drug prevention, and land disputes. “We’re seeing progress, and we stand ready to support the continued refinement of policing practices,” the spokesperson noted.
A Look at Polri’s Role in Papua Today
In the last few years, various initiatives have improved Polri’s presence in Papua. These include:
- Community Policing Programs: Officers engaging directly with local leaders to identify and solve problems collaboratively.
- Education Partnerships: Hosting public seminars and safety campaigns in schools and villages.
- Conflict Resolution Training: Polri members are being trained to act as neutral mediators in civil disputes.
Many local citizens now describe police not as an intimidating presence but as accessible public servants—a major shift from past perceptions.
Challenges That Remain
Despite positive developments, challenges remain:
- Ensuring Equal Access to Justice, especially in remote areas where tribal and customary law still dominate.
- Improving Human Rights Accountability: Ensuring incidents of abuse are transparently investigated and prosecuted.
- Enhancing Local Representation: Increasing the number of indigenous Papuans in the police ranks.
Stakeholders across the region agree: progress must continue—but must also be safeguarded from political volatility and bureaucratic inertia.
Towards the Future: Polri as a Partner in Papua’s Development
As Indonesia sets its sights on becoming a major global economy by 2045—the centenary of its independence—Papua’s inclusion is vital. A well-functioning, community-oriented police force is key to that vision.
Polri’s 79th anniversary in Papua is more than a symbolic celebration. It is a reminder of the potential for national institutions to evolve and grow closer to the people they serve—even in regions marked by complexity and history. If Polri continues to walk the path of precision, equity, and empathy, it may well become one of the most trusted institutions in Papua’s future.
Conclusion
The 79th anniversary of Polri is being positively embraced in Papua, where community leaders, academics, and civil organizations commend the institution’s growing professionalism under the “Presisi” initiative. While many celebrate Polri’s role in maintaining peace and promoting justice, there are also calls for consistent, non-discriminatory law enforcement. The anniversary reflects a broader transformation in public trust—particularly in Papua—highlighting both progress made and the continued need for accountability, inclusion, and equitable policing across all regions.
