Bridged Hope: Task Force Yonif 503/Mayangkara Restores Life for Kalikote Community

PAPUA - In the heart of Papua’s wilderness, Kalikote Village faced a devastating challenge. Two vital bridges, lifelines of the local economy, had collapsed. With their destruction, the movement of goods and people came to a halt, daily life was disrupted, and the well-being of the community was at stake. March 5, 2025 

However, just when despair loomed over the village, hope was reignited by the RI-PNG Yonif 503/Mayangkara Koops Habema Mobile Border Security Task Force. Led by Second Lieutenant Eka Rahmatullah, 27 dedicated personnel of the task force joined forces with the local community to rebuild what was lost and restore the spirit of Kalikote, Kenyam District, Nduga Regency, Papua.

A Bridge Beyond Wood and Iron

Armed with 125 sheets of ironwood planks, gathered through self-help efforts, they reconstructed not just a bridge, but a pathway to a better future. Every board installed symbolized resilience, every hammer strike echoed the unwavering spirit of gotong-royong (mutual cooperation), proving that strength comes not only from structure but from unity.

Under the scorching sun and the cool mountain breeze, the warriors of Mayangkara worked tirelessly. Every sweat-drenched effort was a testament to their dedication, ensuring that Kalikote’s vital connection was not just rebuilt, but reborn.

Restoring Smiles, Rebuilding Dreams

Now, the bridge stands tall and strong, ready to welcome villagers with renewed hope. Trucks, motorcycles, and pedestrians can once again cross without fear, bringing back the lifeblood of the local economy. Smiles return, and the community breathes easier, knowing they are not alone in their struggle.

"We are not just securing borders, we are building life, " said Lieutenant Eka Rahmatullah, his eyes gleaming with pride as he admired the newly completed bridge. "The happiness of the people is our happiness too."

Pangkoops Habema Major General TNI Lucky Avianto highlighted the greater significance of this effort.

"In Kalikote, in Nduga, in Papua – hope has now been bridged. Not just with wood and iron, but with sincerity and an unbreakable spirit, " he declared.

This bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it stands as a testament to the unwavering presence of the TNI, ensuring that no village, no person, is left behind.

Authentication:
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Letkol Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono