Bridged Hope: Task Force Yonif 503/Mayangkara Rebuilds Hope for the Kalikote Community

PAPUA - Kalikote Village, nestled deep within the Papuan wilderness, faced a devastating setback. The collapse of two vital bridges—lifelines of the local economy—brought the flow of goods and services to a standstill, disrupting daily life and endangering the well-being of the community.

Yet, when hope seemed to fade, the RI-PNG Yonif 503/Mayangkara Koops Habema Mobile Border Security Task Force stepped in as a beacon of resilience. Led by Second Lieutenant Eka Rahmatullah, 27 task force personnel joined forces with the local community to rebuild what was lost in Kalikote Village, Kenyam District, Nduga Regency, Papua, on Thursday (06/03/2025).

More Than Just a Bridge

Using 125 sheets of ironwood planks, sourced through self-help efforts, they meticulously reconstructed the broken link. It wasn’t luxury they provided, but strength and endurance—a testament to an unwavering spirit of mutual cooperation and perseverance.

Under the scorching sun and the whispering mountain breeze, they worked relentlessly. Each hammer strike, each plank laid down, was more than just construction—it was a symbol of renewal. Not just a bridge was built, but a deeper connection—of brotherhood, of hope.

Now, the bridge stands firm, welcoming determined footsteps once again. The economy is back in motion, and smiles return to once-anxious faces. But more than that, this bridge represents the TNI’s unwavering presence—bringing support, love, and commitment to the people.

"We are not only securing the borders but also building lives, " said Lieutenant Eka Rahmatullah, his eyes gleaming with pride as he observed the completed bridge. "The happiness of the people is our happiness too."

A Bridge That Unites Aspirations

Meanwhile, Pangkoops Habema Major General TNI Lucky Avianto emphasized that the bridge’s reconstruction has not only restored economic connectivity but also reaffirmed the indomitable spirit of unity and collaboration.

"In Kalikote, in Nduga, in Papua, hope is now bridged—not just by wood and iron, but by sincerity and an unyielding spirit, " Pangkoops Habema concluded.

Authentication:
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Letkol Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono