TNI: The Vanguard of Papua’s Development and Security

PAPUA - Amidst the stunning yet challenging terrain of Papua, the Indonesian National Army (TNI) continues to serve as the vanguard in accelerating regional development. Beyond its role as a security force, the TNI is actively contributing to Papua’s progress, serving as a development facilitator and a bridge between the government and the people. March 4, 2025

Guided by Presidential Instruction (Inpres) Number 9 of 2020, the TNI carries out three key missions in Papua:
✅ Ensuring security and stability
✅ Assisting local governments in providing essential public services
✅ Enhancing inclusive social engagement with communities

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These tasks are executed through Task Forces (Satgas) strategically deployed across Papua, ensuring the creation of a peaceful and stable environment—an essential foundation for sustainable development.

Security: A Cornerstone for Progress

Security remains the fundamental pillar of Papua’s growth. The TNI is fully committed to maintaining stability, ensuring that development efforts can proceed without disruption. However, challenges persist, particularly from Armed Separatist Groups (KSB), formerly known as the Free Papua Movement (OPM). These groups continue to pose a significant threat to peace and progress in the region.

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One tragic incident that underscores this challenge was the murder of Glen Malcolm Conning, a New Zealand citizen and helicopter pilot for PT Intan Angkasa Air Service, on August 5, 2024, by OPM militants. This heinous act not only disrupted security but also threatened foreign professionals contributing to Papua’s development.

Despite these threats, the TNI demonstrated its unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts by successfully evacuating Pilot Glen’s body, along with health workers, teachers, and even toddlers, on August 6, 2024. Remarkably, this operation was conducted without any formal request from the victim’s family or the New Zealand government—a testament to the TNI’s dedication to humanity and justice.

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Additionally, the TNI’s successful rescue of Susi Air pilot Captain Phillip Mark Mehrtens on September 21, 2024, after months of captivity, stands as a remarkable achievement, showcasing its ability and determination to protect both Indonesian and foreign citizens.

Beyond Security: Strengthening Community Bonds

The TNI’s mission goes beyond combatting separatist threats. Recognizing the importance of community trust, the TNI actively engages in social and humanitarian programs. These initiatives are designed to foster strong relationships between the TNI and local communities, ensuring that security efforts align with the people’s needs.

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Habema Commander Major General Lucky Avianto emphasized the critical role of security in development, stating:

"Security is the foundation of Papua’s progress. The TNI and Polri understand this well and remain committed to maintaining stability across the region. Our focus is not only on countering separatist threats but also on strengthening community ties through social and humanitarian efforts. By building strong relationships with the people, we aim to create lasting peace and accelerate development in Papua."

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With a comprehensive approach that integrates security, humanitarian aid, and development support, the TNI remains steadfast in its mission to bring Papua toward a future of peace, stability, and prosperity.

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