With Heart and Duty: Yonif 500/Sikatan Task Force Brings Life-Saving Health Services to Papuan Children

PAPUA - The unwavering spirit of humanity and dedication was once again demonstrated by the RI-PNG Mobile Border Security Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan, who provided free health services to young children at Mamba Kindergarten, Mamba Village, Papua. Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

Led by Serda Fikri, a team of 10 medical personnel from the Task Force’s healthcare unit conducted emergency medical care for two local children Mawar Sani (a toddler) and Linus Sani (7 years old). The team arrived promptly following reports of the children’s deteriorating health conditions.

Mawar Sani had been suffering from a persistent fever and diarrhea for two consecutive days. Her family initially relied on traditional remedies, but when her condition showed no improvement, they sought help from the Task Force, bringing her to Mamba Kindergarten where the medical team was stationed.

“Little Mawar came to us very weak, showing symptoms of high fever and dehydration due to diarrhea, ” explained Serda Fikri, the lead medic. “We immediately administered treatment, provided rehydration, and educated the parents on hygiene and the importance of maintaining fluid intake to aid her recovery.”

The atmosphere during the treatment was warm and filled with a sense of kinship, reflecting the strong bonds between the Task Force members and the local Papuan community. The team didn’t just offer medical help they offered compassion and hope.

Commander of the Yonif 500/Sikatan Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Danang Rahmayanto, S.I.P., M.M., emphasized that this mission goes far beyond border security.

“We are here not only to guard the sovereignty of our borders but also to care for the well-being of the people, ” said Lieutenant Colonel Danang. “When a child here suffers, it’s as if our own child suffers. The Task Force stands ready to serve, to protect, and to be present whenever the community needs us.”

This humanitarian mission is part of a broader effort by the TNI to demonstrate that their presence in Papua is not solely military but also deeply rooted in humanity, compassion, and partnership with the local people.

The message is clear the bond between the TNI and the Papuan community is unbreakable, fueled by empathy, solidarity, and an enduring commitment to shared prosperity and peace.

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Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Letkol Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono