Healing Beyond Borders: Yonif 500/Sikatan Brings Lifesaving Health Services to Remote Papuan Villages

PAPUA - In the heart of Papua’s mountainous interior, where modern healthcare remains a luxury for many, soldiers from the RI–PNG Mobile Border Security Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan once again proved that their mission goes far beyond military duties. Through a community health service initiative, the Task Force extended medical care to residents of Emondi Village and Mamba Bawah Village, bringing not just treatment but also hope. Saturday, July 19, 2025

Held at J2 Kout Kindergarten and Mamba Kotis Kindergarten, the medical outreach was filled with warmth and genuine connection. Many villagers came seeking help for severe wounds injuries from motorcycle accidents and burns that had worsened due to reliance on traditional remedies.

First Lieutenant Ckm Dr. Indra Sitepu, the Task Force’s medical officer, led the treatment process.

“One patient came in with an infected wound that had been treated with local herbs but had gotten worse. After cleaning and administering proper treatment, his condition started to improve, ” explained Dr. Indra. “We’re continuing to monitor his recovery.”

Among those treated were Yesaya Dwitau from Emondi and Yunus from Mamba Bawah. Both expressed deep gratitude to the TNI personnel who provided not only physical care, but also emotional support.

“We feel blessed to have the TNI here, ” said one emotional resident. “They help protect us, but also care for us. We are not alone. Thank you, TNI.”

The atmosphere during the event reflected the deepening bond between the military and the local community, where uniforms didn’t symbolize authority, but solidarity. The initiative reinforced the idea that the presence of the TNI in Papua is not limited to security operations, but extends to real humanitarian engagement.

Lieutenant Colonel Danang Rahmayanto, S.I.P., M.M., Commander of the Yonif 500/Sikatan Task Force, highlighted the importance of compassion in their mission.

“We don’t just carry weapons we carry responsibility. These people are our family. Papua is not just a place we serve it’s part of who we are, ” he affirmed.

Through this effort, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to serve even the most isolated communities bringing not only healthcare, but dignity and hope to the people of Papua.

"TNI is present, Papua is healthy. With the people, TNI is strong."

Media Contact:
HABEMA Media Task Force Commander
Lieutenant Colonel Iwan Dwi Prihartono