The radiant passion of Papua’s young female footballers once again lit up the national stage as the Papua All-Stars team showcased both talent and determination in the Pertiwi 2025 Cup, Indonesia’s premier women’s youth football tournament. Despite facing challenges due to limited local tournaments in their home region, the teenage players carried the spirit of a province longing to develop its women’s football.
Leading the charge was Jullysti Matui, a prominent voice and captain of the squad, who emphasized the urgent need for regular competitions in Papua to nurture future talent. “We came here not only to compete, but also to bring a message. Papuan girls want to play. We are ready. But we need opportunities back home,” she said, her voice echoing across media rooms and touching the hearts of many.
A Journey Fueled by Determination and Dreams
Representing Papua in Pertiwi 2025 Cup wasn’t just about winning matches — it was about making a statement. For many of the players, this was their first national-level experience. They trained without the benefits of regular leagues or state-of-the-art facilities. Yet, their energy, skill, and resilience stood out throughout the tournament, earning them respect and admiration.
The Pertiwi Cup, which brought together teams from across Indonesia — from Sumatra to Papua — has increasingly become a platform for spotlighting the emerging strength of Indonesian women’s football. But the disparity in access to regular football competitions remains stark. While provinces like West Java, Jakarta, and Central Java host seasonal tournaments and have dedicated programs, Papua struggles with minimal infrastructure and lack of organized leagues for girls.
Jullysti Matui: The Voice of Hope
At only 18, Jullysti Matui has emerged as both a football star and an advocate. Her leadership and composure on the field were matched only by her conviction off it. “We need more tournaments in Papua. We can’t keep waiting for national events to play. If we don’t start early and consistently, we won’t be able to compete on equal footing,” she told reporters during the post-match briefing.
Her sentiments reflect the broader concerns among coaches and sports activists in Papua, who argue that without sustainable investment and attention to youth football development for girls, the region risks sidelining a generation of talented female athletes.
From Margins to the Mainstream
While the All-Stars Papua team did not reach the tournament finals, their presence in Pertiwi 2025 Cup marked a turning point. Media coverage, especially from Indonesia’s mainstream outlets like Kompas and Tribunnews, has amplified their voices — highlighting not just scores, but stories. Stories of young girls walking miles to reach training grounds, of families who support them against cultural norms, and of a province rich in footballing potential, waiting for the spotlight to linger a little longer.
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) and regional sports authorities are now being urged to respond to this call. Experts stress that grassroots development, consistent regional leagues, and equal funding are key to sustaining and scaling women’s football nationwide, especially in Eastern Indonesia.
The Future of Women’s Football in Papua
Football has long been a unifying force in Papua, with men’s teams like Persipura Jayapura achieving national fame. But for Papuan girls, the journey has only just begun. The Pertiwi 2025 Cup has ignited hope — a spark that now must be fanned into sustained support.
Organizations and private sponsors are being called upon to invest in facilities, training, and tournament access for female athletes in Papua. The establishment of annual youth leagues, talent scouting, and football academies tailored for girls are just some of the recommendations voiced by analysts and coaches.
Conclusion
The participation of the Papua All-Stars in the Pertiwi 2025 Cup is a compelling reminder that sports are more than just competition — they are a means of empowerment, identity, and transformation. The voices of Jullysti Matui and her teammates now resonate far beyond the pitch.
They have shown Indonesia what they can do. Now, the ball is in the hands of decision-makers to ensure these young women have the same playing field — both literally and figuratively — as their peers across the archipelago.
