TNI at the Frontline: A Real Contribution to Accelerating Development in Papua

PAPUA - Amid the breathtaking yet challenging terrain of Papua, the Indonesian National Army (TNI) stands as the frontline force in supporting the acceleration of welfare development. Carrying out the mandate of Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 9 of 2020, TNI plays a crucial role not only as a security force but also as a development facilitator and a communication bridge between the government and the people. March 5, 2025

TNI: A Pillar of Development in Papua

Inpres 9/2020 serves as the legal foundation for the TNI in carrying out three primary missions in Papua:

1. Ensuring security and stability across the region.
2. Supporting local governments in providing essential public services.
3. Building inclusive social communication to strengthen the connection between the state and its people.

Through the deployment of TNI task forces (Satgas) in various regions, the Indonesian Army actively contributes to maintaining peace and creating a conducive environment for development in Papua.

Security: The Key to Papua’s Growth

Security is the fundamental requirement for Papua’s accelerated development. TNI fully understands this and remains committed to ensuring stability across the region. However, security threats continue to pose challenges.

One of the most pressing threats is the Armed Separatist Group (KSB), previously known as the Free Papua Movement (OPM). Their violent activities and criminal actions continue to disrupt stability and threaten both local and foreign citizens contributing to Papua’s development.

A tragic incident occurred on Monday, August 5, 2024, when Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand citizen and helicopter pilot for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, was brutally murdered by OPM militants. This act of violence not only jeopardized regional security but also threatened international cooperation in Papua’s development.

Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts, TNI swiftly evacuated the remains of Pilot Glen, healthcare workers, teachers, and young children from the conflict zone on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. This action was carried out without any formal request from the victim's family or the New Zealand government—purely as a humanitarian mission.

Additionally, TNI’s extraordinary success in rescuing Susi Air pilot Captain Phillip Mark Mehrtens on September 21, 2024, further proves its operational excellence and dedication to protecting civilians, both Indonesian and foreign.

Strengthening Community Bonds

Commander of Koops Habema, Major General TNI Lucky Avianto, emphasized the critical role of security in Papua’s development and the importance of TNI’s engagement with local communities.

"Security is the foundation of Papua's development and welfare. TNI and Polri are fully committed to maintaining stability across the region. Beyond addressing separatist threats, we actively engage in social and humanitarian activities to build trust and strong relationships with the local people. Through these efforts, we hope to create a powerful synergy between TNI and the community, ensuring both security and sustainable development in Papua."

TNI: A Force for Progress and Stability

TNI's presence in Papua is not just about military operations—it serves as a protector, a development partner, and a unifying force for the people. With professionalism, responsiveness, and adaptability, TNI continues to pave the way for a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous Papua.

As collaboration between TNI, the government, and the community continues to grow, Papua is set to move toward a brighter and more secure future for generations to come.

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Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Letkol Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono