Natalius Pigai’s profile is in the spotlight after being appointed Minister of Human Rights by President of the Republic of Indonesia 2024-2029 Prabowo Subianto.
The announcement of the Red and White Cabinet of President Prabowo Subianto – Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka was made at the State Palace, Jakarta, Sunday (20/10/2024).
Natalius Pigai, who was born in Paniai, Central Papua, on December 25, 1975, is one of the figures known to be critical in fighting for human rights in Indonesia.
From a young age, Pigai has shown a strong determination to defend the rights of the people, especially marginalized groups. Pigai is a graduate of the College of Village Community Government in Yogyakarta, where he earned his Bachelor of Government Science (S.I.P.).
In addition to formal education, Pigai is also diligent in enriching his knowledge through various trainings and non-formal education. In 2003, he studied statistics at the University of Indonesia and continued his education as a researcher at the Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) in 2005.
Pigai also completed leadership education at the State Administration Institute in 2010-2011. Pigai’s professional career began as special staff to the Minister of Labor and Transmigration from 1999 to 2004.
During this period, he was involved in various important issues, including as an interactive dialog moderator at TVRI from 2006 to 2008.
His contributions continued when he became a consultant to the Deputy for Supervision of the Aceh-Nias Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Agency (BRR) and an assistance team at the Directorate General of Regional Autonomy of the Ministry of Home Affairs in 2010-2012.
As a native Papuan, Pigai has never forgotten his homeland. He is active in various non-governmental organizations that focus on the rights of marginalized groups, such as the Sejati Foundation and the Cindelaras Foundation.