TNI: The Vanguard of Papua’s Development and Security

PAPUA - In the heart of Papua’s breathtaking yet challenging landscape, the Indonesian National Army (TNI) stands as the vanguard of progress, playing a pivotal role in accelerating development and ensuring stability. Under Presidential Instruction (Inpres) No. 9 of 2020, the TNI is more than just a security force it serves as a development facilitator and a crucial bridge of communication between the government and the people. Monday, March 3, 2025..  

Inpres 9/2020 mandates the TNI to execute three key missions in Papua:  

1. Ensuring security to create a stable environment for development.  

2. Assisting local governments in providing essential public services.  

3. Fostering inclusive social engagement to strengthen ties with the local community.  

Through the strategic deployment of task forces (Satgas) across Papua, the TNI proactively contributes to regional stability, ensuring that development efforts are not hindered by security threats.  

Security remains the foundation of Papua’s progress, and the TNI is fully committed to maintaining a safe and conducive environment. However, persistent threats from the Armed Separatist Group (KSB), formerly known as the Free Papua Movement (OPM), continue to endanger stability.  

One of the most tragic incidents occurred on Monday, August 5, 2024, when OPM brutally murdered Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand citizen and helicopter pilot for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service. Such acts of violence not only disrupt peace but also endanger foreign nationals who contribute to Papua’s development.  

Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to humanity, the TNI swiftly evacuated the bodies of Pilot Glen, health workers, teachers, and toddlers on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 without any formal request from the victims' families or the New Zealand government. This humanitarian action underscores the TNI’s dedication to protecting all lives, regardless of nationality. 

Another remarkable achievement came on September 21, 2024, when the TNI successfully freed Susi Air’s Captain Pilot Phillip Mark Mehrtens from OPM captivity. This milestone operation showcased the TNI’s capabilities, resilience, and deep commitment to ensuring security not just for Indonesians but for foreign nationals as well.  

Habema Commander Major General Lucky Avianto emphasized the crucial link between security and development in Papua:  

"Security is the foundation of prosperity. The TNI and Polri fully understand this and continue to uphold stability across Papua. Beyond military operations, we actively engage with communities through social and humanitarian initiatives. By building trust and strong relationships, we foster lasting synergy between security forces and the people, ensuring that development in Papua moves forward without fear."  

The TNI’s multi-faceted approach combining security enforcement with community outreach ensures that Papua continues to progress. With resilience, professionalism, and an unwavering dedication to peace, the TNI remains at the forefront of safeguarding Papua’s future.  

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Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Letkol Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono