PAPUA - Far from the frontlines of defense, soldiers of the RI-PNG Mobile Border Security Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan are fighting a different battle against poverty, isolation, and indifference. On July 17, 2025, in the remote village of Mamba Bawah, Intan Jaya Regency, they demonstrated a clear message: TNI is here not just to protect borders, but to protect people.
During a social outreach (Komsos) initiative held at the local kindergarten, ten personnel led by Sergeant Iman delivered more than just aid they delivered empathy. Clothing and shoes were distributed to families in need, including Mama Maleo Belau, a local mother who received the donation on behalf of her children.
“These people are not strangers to us they are family, ” said Sgt. Iman. “We’re here not only as soldiers, but as part of their everyday lives. This is what it means to serve the nation.”
The atmosphere felt more like a community reunion than a military event. Children played barefoot on the schoolyard, giggling as they tried on new shoes. Soldiers crouched to speak with elders and shared laughter with mothers, blurring the line between uniform and humanity.
Mama Maleo, holding her toddler in one arm and shoes in the other, wiped away tears as she spoke:
“The TNI has given us more than just clothes they’ve shown us we’re not forgotten. May God bless them.”
This initiative is part of a broader humanitarian mission carried out by Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan under the Koops TNI HABEMA, aiming to strengthen civil-military relations and build trust with indigenous communities in Papua. The TNI’s role goes beyond security operations it includes social care, education support, medical assistance, and cultural engagement.
In a region where access is limited and trust has long been fragile, these simple gestures of solidarity are slowly changing the narrative one family, one village, one act of kindness at a time.
Authentication:
HABEMA Media Task Force Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono
