Football has long been a unifying force in Indonesia, and in the Central Papua region, it has become a beacon of hope and opportunity for the youth. One of the most significant contributors to the development of football in this area is PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI). Through its various initiatives, PTFI has played a pivotal role in nurturing local talent and providing platforms for young athletes to showcase their skills.​
PTFI’s Role in Central Papua Regional League 4
In April 2025, PTFI stepped forward as the main sponsor for Liga 4 Regional Central Papua, a football competition organized by the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) for the Central Papua region. This sponsorship underscores PTFI’s commitment to fostering football development and supporting local communities. The company’s involvement goes beyond financial support; it encompasses a holistic approach to sports development, including infrastructure, training, and community engagement.​
Infrastructure Development: Mimika Sports Complex
A cornerstone of PTFI’s commitment to sports development is the Mimika Sport Complex (MSC), located in Timika, Central Papua. Spanning 12 hectares of land, the MSC was constructed between 2014 and 2016 on land owned by the Mimika Regency Government. The complex boasts world-class facilities, including an international-standard athletics track, natural and synthetic grass football fields, an indoor hall for basketball, badminton, and volleyball, a gymnasium, and an athlete dormitory with a capacity of 80 people. MSC serves as the home base for the Papua Football Academy (PFA), an academy dedicated to nurturing young football talents from Papua. ​
Community Engagement and Youth Development
PTFI’s support for Central Papua Regional League 4 is part of its broader strategy to engage with local communities and invest in youth development. By sponsoring the league, PTFI provides young athletes with the opportunity to compete at a higher level, gain exposure, and develop their skills. The company’s involvement also promotes values ​​such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among the youth.​
Government Support and Regional Initiatives
The local government, led by Governor Meki Fritz Nawipa, has also been a strong advocate for football development in the region. Governor Nawipa officially launched the Liga 4 Regional Papua Tengah, emphasizing the importance of sports in promoting unity and discipline among the youth. His administration has prioritized sports as a means to enhance community engagement and provide opportunities for young people to excel. ​
The Liga 4 competition has seen active participation from various clubs, with seven teams competing in the Central Papua region, namely Persinab Nabire, Persido Dogiyai, Persidei Deiyai, Persintan Intan Jaya. Persipuja Puncak Jaya, Persipuncak Puncak Cartenz, and the host Persemi Mimika. This regional league serves as a platform for local talents to showcase their abilities and aspire to higher levels of competition. The league’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the government, local organizations, and private sector partners like PTFI. ​
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Future Prospects and Conclusion
Looking ahead, PTFI’s continued support for football in Central Papua holds promising prospects. The company’s investments in infrastructure and youth development create a solid foundation for the growth of football in the region. With sustained efforts, there is potential for local talents to rise through the ranks and represent Papua at national and international levels. PTFI’s commitment to football development not only enhances the sport’s profile in Central Papua but also contributes to the overall well-being and empowerment of the local communities.
