Tuesday, June 23, 2026

1) An Kimin Kindergarten Established for Internally Displaced Children from Nduga


2) Indonesian military personnel allegedly intimidate catholic clergy at Timika Cathedral

3) Indonesian military allegedly raid homes and intimidate residents in Yahukimo

4) Police officer allegedly hits woman during motorcycle accident and opens fire at by-standers in Dekai

5) Arbitrary arrest of hospital patient in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency

6) Gen Z protests expansion of food, energy projects in Indonesia’s Papua
7) Central Papua Government Receives Home Affairs Ministry Award for Reducing Unemployment
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1) An Kimin Kindergarten Established for Internally Displaced Children from Nduga

N PACNEWS READING TIME: 2 MINS READ JUNE 23, 2026  0 Author : CR18 Editor : Nuevaterra Mambor

Wamena, Jubi – The An Kimin Kindergarten learning group in Jayawijaya Regency, Papua Highlands Province, was established to provide educational opportunities for
internally displaced children from Nduga Regency, Papua Highlands, who are currently living in the area.

An Kimin Kindergarten was founded after thousands of Nduga residents were
displaced to various regions following the armed conflict in their home regency, which began in early December 2018.

An Kimin founder Intanus Gwijangge said children living in displacement sites had
not received adequate education due to the lack of government support. The situation prompted his group to establish the learning program in 2021.

“For years, we have been working in the humanitarian sector, particularly in
education, by establishing several community learning groups in Wamena since 2021,” Gwijangge said in a telephone interview on Monday (June 22, 2026).

The An Kimin learning program operates in three different locations. Group One is based in Sekom Village, Muliama District; Group Two in Musaima Village, Hubikiak District; and Group Three in Healekma Village, Napua District.

The program currently serves 100 students, 50 of whom have been registered in Indonesia’s Basic Education Data System (Dapodik). Five volunteers serve as teachers, with one assigned to Muliama, two to Healekma, and two to Musaima.

According to Gwijangge, the group has previously proposed that the Nduga Education Office provide a suitable school building to support teaching and learning activities. However, the proposal has yet to receive a response.

He explained that although the initiative is called An Kimin Kindergarten, its students are not limited to kindergarten-age children. The program also accommodates children of elementary and junior high school age.

“They are school dropouts from conflict-affected areas in Nduga, including Yigi, Mebarok, Mbugumu Yal, Paro, and other districts. We are trying to embrace them, so they do not lose their future,” he said.

Gwijangge said that last year, 13 students from An Kimin were enrolled in are educational foundation in Wamena to continue their studies under better conditions. Several other students have also been placed in schools in Napua District.

“We do all of this because we care about human resource development, not because of any personal interest. We have communicated this situation to the Head of the Nduga Education Office, but until now there has been no serious response,” he said.

Gwijangge hopes the Nduga Regency Government will support the initiative by
helping provide dormitories, learning facilities, and other educational necessities.

According to him, the community-based education movement complements
government efforts to fulfill children’s right to education.

“We are helping the regency government, provincial government, and other authorities prepare the next generation. Therefore, we hope there will be tangible support from the government for the efforts we have undertaken,” he said.

Gwijangge also expressed gratitude to the Rayori Biak Foundation for donating notebooks and pens to the learning program.

“The assistance is very meaningful. However, we still need many things, especially books, stationery, and clothing for children and students,” Intanus Gwijangge said. (*)

Nuevaterra Mambor
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2) Indonesian military personnel allegedly intimidate catholic clergy at Timika Cathedral

23 June 2026 / 2 minutes of reading
Indonesian military personnel (TNI) allegedly entered the private residence (pastoran) of the Three Kings Cathedral (Katedral Tiga Raja) in Timika without authorisation during security operations surrounding the visit of the Vice President of Indonesia, Gibran Rakabuming Raka. According to public statements by Rev. Amandus Rahadat and Rev. Benyamin Sugiya Tanggu Magay, soldiers entered the cathedral compound and private areas of the priests’ residence, including bedrooms, without permission. Rev. Amandus also alleged that unidentified individuals had repeatedly attended Mass whilst secretly photographing and recording clergy and worshippers. Following public criticism by the Church, representatives of Kodim 1710/Mimika met the priests on 28 April 2026, apologised for the conduct of their personnel, and acknowledged that soldiers should not have entered the residence without an official assignment order.
According to Rev. Amandus, the incidents culminated during the Vice President’s visit to Timika, when uniformed TNI personnel allegedly entered the cathedral compound and the priests’ residence without authorisation. During a public announcement after Mass on 26 April 2026, he condemned the intrusion into private areas of the residence and questioned whether the Church was being treated as though it were harbouring terrorists. He also reported repeated surveillance during religious services and announced that the cathedral would strengthen security measures to protect clergy and worshippers.
On 28 April 2026, representatives of Kodim 1710/Mimika, led by the Deputy District Military Commander, met Rev. Amandus and Rev. Benyamin at the cathedral (see group photo above). Rev. Amandus later clarified that the meeting had been intended to seek clarification rather than to interrogate the priests, contrary to reports circulating on social media. During the meeting, the military reportedly acknowledged that soldiers should not enter a private residence without an official assignment order and apologised on behalf of the District Military Commander and Regional Military Commander. The priests accepted the apology but stressed that such incidents must not be repeated.
The reported intrusion and surveillance raise concerns regarding the rights to privacy, freedom of religion and the independence of religious institutions. Entering a private residence without legal authority may constitute an arbitrary interference with privacy under Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), while surveillance of clergy and worshippers may have a chilling effect on the exercise of freedom of religion and expression. Although the military apologised and acknowledged procedural shortcomings, there should be an impartial investigation, accountability for any misconduct, and guarantees that similar incidents will not recur.

Video with a message condemning the intrusion 

Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-086-2026
Region: Indonesia > Central Papua > Mimika
Total number of victims: 2
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.1 Amandus Rehadat
maleadult Religious Group
2.1 Benyamin Sugiya Tanggu Magay
adult Religious Group
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Military (TNI)
Perpetrator details: Kodim 1710/Mimika
Issues: other
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https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/indonesian-military-allegedly-raid-homes-and-intimidate-residents-in-yahukimo/

3) Indonesian military allegedly raid homes and intimidate residents in Yahukimo

23 June 2026 / 2 minutes of reading
Indonesian military personnel from a Marine unit (Korps Marinir) allegedly carried out a pre-dawn raid on two civilian homes in the Kebun Nenas residential area on Jalan Kali Merah, Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, on the night of 25 April 2026 at approximately 3 am. According to information received, military personnel forcibly entered the homes of Mr Naton Pahabol and Mr Devi Itlay, damaging doors and windows, ordering family members outside, photographing them, and conducting warrantless searches. No arrests were reported, but the operation allegedly caused significant fear, trauma and insecurity among the affected civilians.
According to the information received, members of the Indonesian Marines simultaneously raided the two residences in the Kebun Nenas area during the early hours of 25 April 2026. The soldiers reportedly forced entry by kicking in the doors of the houses, causing damage to the doors and windows. Family members of Mr Naton Pahabol were allegedly ordered to leave their home, instructed to sit on the ground outside, and photographed by the security forces. The personnel then conducted an extensive search of the property, inspecting all rooms, including bedrooms and bathrooms. During the search, they confiscated one handheld radio (HT) that the family reportedly used for communication with relatives in their village. According to the source, the device was not returned. Similar damage to doors and windows was reportedly inflicted during the raid on the home of Mr Devi Itlay.
The reported conduct raises concerns regarding compliance with Indonesia’s obligations under international human rights law. The forced entry into private homes without any publicly known judicial authorisation or legal basis may constitute an arbitrary interference with privacy, family and home, contrary to Article 17 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Indonesia is a State Party. The confiscation of private property without due process may also violate protections against arbitrary deprivation of property under domestic law. Furthermore, photographing family members after forcing them from their home and conducting military-style operations against civilians may amount to intimidation and contribute to a climate of fear, particularly in conflict-affected areas such as Yahukimo Regency.

Damaged window and door


Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-085-2026
Region: Indonesia > Highland Papua > Yahukimo > Dekai
Total number of victims: 2
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.1 Naton Pahabol
maleadult Indigenous Peoples
2.1 Devi Itlay
maleadult Indigenous Peoples
Period of incident: 25/04/2026 – 25/04/2026
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Military (TNI) > Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL)
Perpetrator details: Korps Marinir

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4) Police officer allegedly hits woman during motorcycle accident and opens fire at by-standers in Dekai

23 June 2026 / 2 minutes of reading
A woman sustained critical injuries after allegedly being struck by a motorcycle ridden by two members of the Yahukimo District Police in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan Province, on 3 May 2026. The victim, Mrs Nelly Wenda (see photo on top, source: independent HRD), was reportedly hit while walking along Route 1. Witnesses accused that the officers intoxicated as the accident occurred. Following the collision, tensions escalated when local residents protested the incident, Thereupon, police officers allegedly discharged their firearms indiscriminately towards by-standers. Mrs Wenda was admitted to Dekai Regional General Hospital in critical condition, where she received medical treatment.
According to information received, Mrs Nelly Wenda was walking from a residential area on Route 1 when two officers from the Yahukimo District Police, travelling on a motorcycle, allegedly struck her in front of a roadside kiosk at approximately 04:40 pm. Witnesses alleged that the officers appeared to be intoxicated at the time of the incident. The collision caused the victim to suffer severe injuries requiring emergency medical treatment.
The incident immediately drew the attention of nearby residents. Some residents reportedly reacted by throwing stones at the officers. In response, the officers fired their weapons indiscriminately in the direction of by-standers. No information had been received indicating that anyone had been struck by the gunfire. Police officers detained the perpetrators and promised that both officers would be held accountable for the accident. However, there has been no information about disciplinary sanctions against the officers at the time of writing.
Human rights analysis
If confirmed, the incident raises serious concerns regarding the use of force by law enforcement officials and the protection of civilians. The alleged operation of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol by police officers would constitute a grave breach of professional standards and potentially criminal conduct. Furthermore, the reported indiscriminate discharge of firearms in response to stone-throwing appears inconsistent with the principles of legality, necessity, proportionality and precaution governing the use of force under international human rights law, including the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. The authorities are obliged to conduct a prompt, impartial and effective investigation into both the collision and the subsequent use of firearms, to preserve evidence, identify those responsible, and ensure accountability where violations are established.

Police officers calm down local residents following the traffic accident involving tow police officers in Dekai on 3 May 2026


Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-084-2026
Region: Indonesia > Highland Papua > Yahukimo > Dekai
Total number of victims: 1
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.1 Nelly Wenda
femaleadult Indigenous Peoplesill-treatment
Period of incident: 03/05/2026 – 03/05/2026
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Police > POLRES
Perpetrator details: 2 members of the Yahukimo District Police
Issues: indigenous peoples, security force violence, women and children
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5) Arbitrary arrest of hospital patient in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency

23 June 2026 / 2 minutes of reading
On 29 April 2026, members of the Cartenz Peacekeeping Special Police Unit reportedly arrested Mr Natan Heluka, 21, at Kilo 4, Dekai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan province. At the time of his arrest, Mr Heluka reportedly suffered from long-standing blurred vision and was receiving emergency medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Unit of Yahukimo Regional General Hospital. According to the information received, the arrest was carried out without an arrest warrant or any clear legal justification.
The reasons for the arrest were not communicated to the victim or his family, and no arrest warrant was presented. HRM did not receive confirmed information regarding whether Mr Heluka was subjected to ill-treatment, torture, or coercive interrogation. As of 30 April 2026, Heluka had not been released, despite his poor physical condition.
Human rights analysis
The reported circumstances indicate a possible case of arbitrary deprivation of liberty in violation of domestic and international legal standards. Under Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), everyone has the right to liberty and security of person and must not be subjected to arbitrary arrest or detention. The apparent failure to present an arrest warrant or provide the legal basis for the arrest also raises concerns regarding compliance with Indonesia’s Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), particularly the procedural safeguards governing lawful arrest and detention. Furthermore, if the victim was removed from or prevented from accessing necessary medical treatment, this may also interfere with the right to health protected under Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).
Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-083-2026
Region: Indonesia > Highland Papua > Yahukimo > Dekai
Total number of victims: 1
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.1 Natan Heluka
male21 Indigenous Peoplesarbitrary detention
Period of incident: 29/04/2026 – 30/04/2026
Perpetrators:
Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces
Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Police
Perpetrator details: Damai Cartenz special unit
Issues: indigenous peoples
Related Cases:

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https://www.ucanews.com/news/gen-z-protests-expansion-of-food-energy-projects-in-indonesias-papua/113935

6) Gen Z protests expansion of food, energy projects in Indonesia’s Papua

Demonstrators marched with red crosses amid government's fresh funding surge

By UCA News reporter Published: June 23, 2026 12:27 PM GMT

Dozens of young Papuans took to the streets to protest further expansion of the state-backed food and energy projects that they say threaten the ancestral land and livelihood of thousands of indigenous people.

Police stopped a protest march on June 21, citing a lack of a permit and a ban on Sunday demonstrations, when members of Papuan Generation Z, or Gen Z Papua, began their ‘Red Cross March’ at the Red Bridge in the provincial capital, Jayapura.

Tensions briefly flared when officers attempted to confiscate protesters’ banners that had slogans against the government’s food project, the military presence in the area, and an alleged genocide against Papuans.


The current protest is against Indonesia's Strategic National Projects (PSN), a government-backed initiative encompassing food estates, sugarcane plantations, and rice field expansion in South Papua.

President Prabowo Subianto has declared his ambition to open 2.5 million new hectares of land in Papua to support national food and energy security, with Merauke at the center of those plans.

The current PSN covers up to 2.73 million hectares in Merauke alone.

“This is a symbol of rejection [of PSN] and of our deep concern for the condition of Papua,” Aldy Hukubun, a Gen Z Papua representative, said.

The protest march was in response to Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture allocating more than 5.5 trillion rupiah (US$335 million) to expand new rice-field development and crop programs across Papua.

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman announced on June 18 that land under development has now reached 870,000 hectares, including 80,000 hectares of new rice paddy fields added over the past two years.

Protester Brush Wadi said the expansion means indigenous communities are losing more of their customary lands and forests, their food source, and spiritual space.

Researchers from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency have described the food estate model as a “paradox of recognition” — the state claims to protect indigenous rights while, in practice, overriding them.

“The land of Papua is not doing well,” Hukubun said. “Development must take into account human beings and the environment, not just production numbers.”


Father John Bunay, coordinator of Papua Indigenous Priests, said that for the Papuan people, land is not merely an economic commodity or commercial asset, but a primary source of life, a living pharmacy, and a sacred cultural space.

"It is God who gave this land to the tribes; it cannot simply be taken away," he said.


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7) Central Papua Government Receives Home Affairs Ministry Award for Reducing Unemployment

IN PACNEWS READING TIME: 2 MINS READ JUNE 23, 2026  0 Author : Arjuna Pademme Editor : Nuevaterra Mambor

Jayapura, Jubi – The Central Papua Provincial Government has received an award from Indonesia’s Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) in recognition of its success in reducing the unemployment rate.

As part of the award, the provincial government received a trophy and a fiscal incentive worth Rp3 billion, which has been transferred to the Central Papua Provincial Government’s account.

The award was presented to Central Papua Governor Meki Nawipa during the 2026
Papua Regional Outstanding Regional Leaders Awards ceremony in Jayapura, Papua, on Monday evening (June 22, 2026).

The Ministry of Home Affairs assessed that the account of the Central Papua Provincial Government, under the leadership of Governor Meki Nawipa and Deputy Governor Deinas Geley, had demonstrated innovation in regional development, including efforts to reduce unemployment across the province.

The evaluation for the unemployment reduction category considered the quality of planning, budget support, and the province’s success in lowering unemployment rates.

Innovation in the labor and employment sector was considered a key indicator in creating effective, adaptive solutions that deliver tangible benefits to the community.

The Central Papua Provincial Government also secured second place in the provincial-level inflation control category, earning an additional fiscal incentive of Rp2 billion.


In addition to the provincial government, several regency administrations in Central Papua also received awards. Dogiyai Regency was named third-best performer in the same category and received an additional fiscal incentive of Rp1 billion.

Nabire Regency was awarded first place among provincial capitals and received an additional fiscal incentive of Rp3 billion. Meanwhile, Mimika Regency achieved top honors in the creative financing category as well as in poverty alleviation and stunting reduction, earning a total fiscal incentive of Rp6 billion.

Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian said the awards were intended
to encourage and motivate regional leaders to continue delivering their best performance.

However, he reminded regional leaders to exercise caution in the use of the additional fiscal incentives they receive and warned against any misuse of the funds that could result in legal consequences. (*)


Nuevaterra Mambor

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Monday, June 22, 2026

1) Papuan Gen Z Holds Red-Cross March, Rejects National Strategic Projects in Merauke


2) West Papuans speak out against government plan for massive destruction of traditional lands

3) West Papua allocates Rp194 Billion for village cooperatives  

4) Police officers arrest Papuan student without warrant at Jayapura Harbour

5) 12-year-old boy arbitrarily arrested by joint forces in Yahukimo

6) Military disperses documentary film screening in Ternate

7) Indonesian VP pushes MBG expansion in remote areas  

8) Gibran pushes development of Asmat museum as cultural showcase

9) VP supports Asmat sago school to boost local food

10) VP Gibran pledges upgrade of Asmat Hospital to type C

11) Indonesia’s new resource nationalism puts the state first 
12) Central Papua Government Sends 250 Indigenous Papuan Students to Jayapura for Preparatory Courses

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https://jubi.id/pacnews/2026/papuan-gen-z-holds-red-cross-march-rejects-national-strategic-projects-in-merauke/

1) Papuan Gen Z Holds Red-Cross March, Rejects National Strategic Projects in Merauke

N PACNEWS READING TIME: 3 MINS READ JUNE 22, 2026  0 Author : Larius Kogoya Editor : Nuevaterra Mambor


Jayapura, Jubi – Dozens of young Papuans affiliated with Papuan Generation Z (Gen Z Papua) staged a Red-Cross march on Sunday (June 21, 2026), expressing their opposition to National Strategic Projects (PSN) in Merauke Regency, South Papua Province, as well as several other issues affecting Papua.

The participants gathered at Red Bridge in Jayapura at around 4:00 p.m. Papua Time. The march route passed through Tasangkapura, Polimak, Taman Imbi, Dok II, and ended in Dok V, North Jayapura District.

Participants carried a number of handwritten posters highlighting various issues in Papua, along with approximately 35 red crosses.

Among the messages displayed on the posters were: “Papuan Gen Z Rejects PSN in Merauke, Papua Is Not Empty Land,” “Papua Under Military Emergency,” “Papua Faces the Threat of Genocide,” “Reject the Biak Spaceport,” “Save Biak,” “Reject PSN,” “Save Mama Yasinta Moywend,” “Save Dandhy Laksono,” and “Papua Is Not Empty Land.”

A representative of Gen Z Papua, Aldy Hukubun, said the group was stopped by officers from the North Jayapura Sector Police (Polsek Jayapura Utara) at the Dok II traffic intersection and was prevented from continuing the march.

“The police blocked us on the grounds that it was Sunday, demonstrations were not allowed, and our action did not have a permit. This march was not intended to mobilize a large crowd. There were fewer than 60 participants,” Aldy said.

“We find it strange and confusing that World Cup victory parades involving hundreds of people are escorted by police, yet when people march to voice concerns about Papuan rights, humanitarian issues, and conditions in Papua, they are obstructed.”

According to Aldy, raising awareness about humanitarian concerns, Indigenous rights, environmental issues, National Strategic Projects in Merauke, deforestation, and other issues affecting Papua was more meaningful than the euphoria surrounding World Cup celebrations, which he said had even resulted in the loss of lives.

“Our hope is that amid the World Cup euphoria, Papua’s issues will not be forgotten. We should not lose awareness because Papua carries deep wounds that need to be voiced and brought to public attention, including the impacts of the PSN projects in Merauke on endemic wildlife habitats and Indigenous communities, opposition to the Biak spaceport project, and the military emergency situation in Papua,” he said.

Aldy explained that the Red-Cross march was intended as a symbol of opposition and concern regarding conditions in Papua, rather than a symbol of rebellion.

He said that Gen Z Papua simply wanted to convey that the situation in Papua is far from normal.

Another Gen Z Papua participant, Brush Wadi, described the Red-Cross march as an expression of collective awareness.

He said participants shared the concerns of Indigenous communities in Merauke, South Papua, who have been affected by National Strategic Projects, including the loss of customary land rights, land dispossession, and the loss of living space.

“We should not remain complacent because what is happening in Papua today is serious and threatens Papuan people. This march was simply intended to remind the public not to forget Papua’s issues amid the World Cup fever,” Wadi said.

According to Wadi, tensions briefly arose when police officers attempted to seize several posters and cloth banners carried by participants.

“The police seized some of our march materials, including cloth banners reading ‘Papua Under Military Emergency’ and ‘Reject PSN Merauke.’ The situation became tense, but we took them back and went home. Our final destination was the Papua Governor’s Office, but because we were blocked by police, we decided to end the march and return home,” he said. (*)


 Larius Kogoya
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2) West Papuans speak out against government plan for massive destruction of traditional lands

22 June 2026

Maeve Larkins spoke to two members of Yayasan Pusaka Bentala Rakyat, an activist group based in West Papua, about the Indonesian government’s National Strategic Project (PSN) in Merauke, a region in the south of West Papua. The project is deforesting up to three million hectares of Indigenous land to establish agricultural estates growing rice, sugar cane, corn, palm oil and livestock.

Indonesia has occupied West Papua since 1969, orchestrating a vote (the so-called “Act of Free Choice”) to claim the population wanted integration with Indonesia. The Indonesian government has taken control of West Papua’s mining resources and brought in hundreds of thousands of transmigrants from Java to settle there. Indigenous Papuan rights are frequently overruled in the interests of major corporations, and military repression of Papuans is frequent.

In the first half of this year, over 30 Papuans have been killed by the Indonesian military and police, adding to a total death toll at least 100,000 Papuans since Indonesia took control of the province. West Papuans continue to fight for independence.

Papuan opposition to the PSN is the focus of the new documentary, Pig Feast: Colonialism in our time, which now has over 13 million views on YouTube, and has been screened over 1500 times across Indonesia and internationally. The film is now being repressed by Prabowo’s government in Indonesia, including being banned in several location across Indonesia by local government officials.

To protect the interviewees identities, we have anonymised them as “A” and “B”.

Q: How has the Indonesian government’s National Strategic Project (PSN) impacted Indigenous Papuan communities?

A: The PSN has been devastating in Merauke. It threatens our community, especially our ancestral lands. Most of us are relying on these lands, because we got our food and water from the forest.

So, the PSN threatens our lives, especially the most vulnerable—the children and women. It’s why we are being forced to leave, because they are destroying our land.

But it doesn’t just effect the Indigenous community. The transmigrants who live here are also effected. It causes their crops to fail, and it causes flooding in their rice fields.

We have also lost a lot of our traditional materials. We rely on our rituals, but when the PSN started to destroy the forests, we have lost them. And, when they are lost, people lose their culture, and they lose their identity.

When the PSN started, it also affected people’s health. When the dry season comes, the air becomes polluted with dust. So it effects the whole community in Merauke.

B: The PSN is not just an infrastructure, food security, or energy project. It’s much more than that. It is part of a long-running project of the Indonesian government to transform Indigenous land in West Papua into an extractive industrial zone.

Q: What sort of repression do opponents of the PSN face?

A: There have already been many protests by Indigenous communities across Papua against the PSN, for example, in Sorong, Manokwari, and Boven Digoel. There have been so many protests and rallies that the Indigenous peoples have now been banned from protesting.

We’ve also tried to take our protests to the House of Representatives, but so far, we’ve had no positive responses.

If we stand against the project, we are called separatists, and we are intimidated by the military and by the private companies themselves. Like Mama Yasinta, who has now been kidnapped.

[Yasinta Moiwend, known as “Mama Yasinta”, is an Indigenous Papuan activist who spoke against the PSN in the documentary Pig Feast and who has publicly campaigned against the PSN since 2024. In late May, she was reportedly abducted, threatened and taken to Jakarta, where she appears to have been coerced into filing a police report against the documentary director Dhandy Laksono and Indigenous lawyer John Teddy Wakum, for allegedly using footage of her in the film without her permission. Posts from her social media account since the abduction demand the film screenings of Pig Feast are stopped. Her family, friends and lawyers have been unable to get in touch with her directly.-ML]

I’ve just visited Mama Yasinta’s family. They told me that the Indonesian army is now demanding identification from them so they can frame Mama Yasinta as supporting the PSN. The military has set up a military post in the village of Anam for the construction of a 135km road. Another Papuan activist from the movie is being reported to the police for blocking access to his ancestral lands.

B: The kidnapping of Mama Yasinta is very similar to what Indonesian governments have done in the past to Papuans.

This kind of repression is not normal for other infrastructure projects across Indonesia.

In five years, there will be 500 Indonesian military battalions across West Papua. There are already 83,000 military and police stationed in West Papua—one soldier for every 103 Papuans.

They claim they need to be there to combat armed separatists; but they also admit that there are only around 1500 guerrillas with just over 350 firearms between them across the entire province.

Q: The Australian government trains the Indonesian military and police, and provides a lot of support to Indonesia’s government. What message do you have for Australians about this?

A: We really need Australians’ support. There has to be a campaign from the Australian community that puts the focus on West Papua, and which pushes their government to stop supporting the private companies that are investing in Indonesia, specifically in West Papua.

Australian companies are supporting sugar cane plantations in Merauke. There are currently two operating here, but soon there will be seven. And, the Australian government trains the military who act as the security of the plantations, and the PSN.

To set up the PSN, the soldiers have built many military posts, within Merauke and along the border with Papua New Guinea. They surveil the Papuan civilians, and threaten the girls, especially the communities that reject the PSN.

We do not reject “development”, we ask that our rights as land owners be respected. So far, the government has not recognised us as the owner of the land, even though in Indonesia’s 1945 Constitution, article 18 B, recognises customary law, they do not recognise the existence of the Papuan land owners, and so the government views the forests and the swamps as just unused and vacant land even though we maintain the land as our main source of food. It is also a place to live for endemic animals including birds of paradise, cassowary, wallaby, kangaroo, and cuscus.

B: We have to ask for accountability. For everything the Australian government is doing to support the Indonesian military and police, we have to make sure that it is based on human rights principles.

The solidarity we have received from Australia means a lot to us. We need Australians to monitor their own government and hold them to account.

Q: What is the importance of solidarity, from Indonesians and internationally, with West Papua?

A: Before Pig Feast, it was only very small groups in Indonesia that were aware of the PSN. There have now been over 1500 screenings of Pig Feast across Indonesia, and 13 million views on YouTube.

This has been really important, to get more support and spread awareness about the issue, and to break through propaganda from the Indonesian government.

Unfortunately, many Indonesians are still very racist. They are told that Papuans are “uncivilised” people, and so they believe the government when they say “development” is the only way to bring “civilisation” to the Papuans.

Another challenge is that anyone in Indonesia who opposes the government is labelled as a criminal, a terrorist, or a Communist.

So, I think it’s really important that we keep spreading awareness and educating people.

B: It is very good that there is some solidarity that is growing with West Papua internationally and within Indonesia, but it is not enough.

Papuans want our rights respected, but this isn’t happening. We are similar to Aboriginal people. When we lose our land, our forests, we lose our identity. We believe that if we lose our ancestral lands, we are no longer Papuan.

But, if only Papuans speak up about their land, it will not be enough. We need support and solidarity, not only from Indonesia, but across the world.


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3) West Papua allocates Rp194 Billion for village cooperatives  
June 22, 2026 19:59 GMT+700

Manokwari (ANTARA) - The West Papua provincial government has projected that around Rp194.1 billion of the province's total Rp334.5 billion Village Fund allocation for 2026 will be used to support the operations of Red and White Village Cooperatives, one of the national priority programs.

Head of the West Papua Community and Village Empowerment Office (DPMK) Legius Wanimbo said in Manokwari on Monday that the allocation is in line with the central government's policy to accelerate the development of the cooperatives.

"Around 58.03 percent of the 2026 Village Fund allocation is directed toward supporting the establishment and strengthening of Red and White Village Cooperatives," Legius said.

According to him, the policy is part of the central government's strategy to strengthen the economic foundations of villages through the development of professionally and sustainably managed cooperative-based businesses.

The funds may be used for various purposes, including the establishment and strengthening of cooperative institutions, provision of business capital, procurement of facilities and infrastructure, and the construction of outlets and warehouses.

"The funds also cover the development of village logistics services, strengthening food security, and marketing village flagship products," Legius said.

He added that around Rp140.4 billion of the 2026 Village Fund allocation for seven districts in West Papua can still be used to support other priority programs in accordance with prevailing regulations and the needs of each village.

Legius explained that the amount of Village Fund allocated to each village is determined based on several government-established indicators, including population size, poverty rate, land area, geographical challenges, and village government performance.

"The Village Fund allocation for each village in West Papua varies because it is adjusted to the indicators set by the government," he said.

He noted that village administrations must complete several preparatory stages to ensure the effective and accountable implementation of the Red and White Village Cooperatives program, including holding special village deliberation meetings.

Other stages include the transparent appointment of cooperative management boards, adjustments to village budget allocations, and the preparation of reporting and accountability mechanisms for Village Fund utilization in accordance with applicable regulations.

"Village authorities must also ensure that the cooperatives can be managed professionally so that they provide sustainable economic benefits for village communities," Legius added.

He expressed hope that optimizing Village Funds through the strengthening of Red and White Village Cooperatives would become an important instrument for increasing village economic productivity, expanding market access for local products, and strengthening food security across West Papua.

Related news: Over 1,000 Red-White Village Co-ops begin operations: minister

Related news: Red and White Village Co-ops: Big ambition, bigger execution challenge

Translator: Bayu Prasetyo
Editor: Primayanti

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4) Police officers arrest Papuan student without warrant at Jayapura Harbour

22 June 2026 / 3 minutes of reading
On 11 June 2026, intelligence and police officers forcibly arrested twenty-three-year-old student Roy Suhuniap at Jayapura Port, Jayapura City, Papua Province. Mr Suhuniap had just arrived in Jayapura aboard the Gunung Dempo Ship. As he was about to disembark, approximately 15 officers apprehended him without showing a warrant. Following the detention, the police failed to inform Mr Suhuniap’s family about the detention.
After police officers arrested Mr Suhuniap in front of the Gunung Dempo ship around 12:20 am, they forcibly took him to a nearby police post through the back entrance. Mr Suhuniap’s friends witnessed the incident and attempted to follow the officers, but three intelligence officers blocked them and prohibited them from approaching or entering the police post premises. Instead, police officers instructed Mr Suhuniap’s friends to come to the Jayapura District Police headquarters (Polres Jayapura) in the evening at 09:00 am.
At 12:25 am, police officers transported him to Polres Jayapura in Doya Baru, Sentani. His family members and legal representatives from the Papua Legal Aid Institute (LBH Papua) have been denied access to meet him during his first week of detention, despite every suspect’s right to legal assistance from the moment of arrest. Human rights organisations in Jayapura expressed concern over the lack of transparency surrounding his detention and urged the police to clarify the legal status and grant access to his lawyers and family.

Human rights analysis

The reported detention of Mr Roy Suhuniap raise serious concerns under international human rights law. The alleged arrest by intelligence and police officers at Jayapura Port, without presentation of an arrest warrant or explanation of the legal basis, may constitute arbitrary detention contrary to Article 9(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The failure to inform Roy Suhuniap of the reasons for his arrest at the time of apprehension may further violate Article 9(2) ICCPR.
The reported failure of the police to disclose Mr Suhuniap’s exact place of detention to his family, together with the prevention of friends and colleagues from visiting the suspect and obtaining information about the reason for the arrest, raises additional concerns regarding access to legal safeguards and the right to challenge the lawfulness of detention under Article 9(4) ICCPR. If Mr Suhuniap is being detained on a criminal charge, he must be brought promptly before a judge or other officer authorised by law to exercise judicial power, as required by Article 9(3) ICCPR. Continued detention without prompt judicial oversight would deepen concerns of arbitrariness.
Given that Mr Suhuniap is reportedly a student at Cenderawasih University, any prolonged arbitrary detention that interferes with his ability to continue his studies may also affect his enjoyment of the right to education under Article.

Mr Roy Suhuniap during detention at the Jayapura police station (Polres Jayapura)


Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-082-2026
Region: Indonesia > Papua > Jayapura
Total number of victims: 1
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.1 Roy Suhuniap
diverse23 Indigenous Peoples, Studentarbitrary detention, criminalisation
Period of incident: 11/06/2026 – 22/06/2026
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Police > POLRES
Perpetrator details: Polresta Jayapura
Issues: indigenous peoples, security force violence
Related Cases:

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5) 12-year-old boy arbitrarily arrested by joint forces in Yahukimo

/ 2 minutes of reading
A 12-year-old boy, Yosua Segenil, was allegedly arbitrarily arrested by members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the Indonesian National Police (Polri) on 2 May 2026, at approximately 3:00 pm on Jalan Kurima (Kali Biru) in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency. According to information received by Human Rights Monitor, the security forces arrested the child without informing his family of the reasons for the arrest or his whereabouts. As of 5 May 2026, when the case was reported by local human rights defenders, Yosua’s whereabouts remained unknown, raising serious concerns that he may have been subjected to an enforced disappearance.
According to information published by the West Papua National Committee (KNPB) and local human rights defenders, Yosua Segenil was apprehended by joint TNI–POLRI personnel while in the Kali Biru area of Dekai. Witnesses reported that the officers did not provide an arrest warrant or any explanation to the child, his family or members of the local community. Following the arrest, Yosua was taken to an unknown location. His family was reportedly unable to obtain any official information regarding his place of detention or legal status. In response, relatives appealed to churches, community leaders, youth organisations and civil society groups in Yahukimo to advocate for the child’s immediate release and to pressure the authorities to disclose his whereabouts. Human rights defenders also called on the Indonesian authorities to provide an official explanation and guarantee the child’s safety.
The reported arrest raises serious concerns under international human rights law. The arrest of a child without judicial safeguards, prompt notification of family members or access to legal assistance appears incompatible with Articles 9 and 24 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which protect individuals from arbitrary arrest and require special protection for children. The failure to acknowledge the child’s whereabouts may also amount to an enforced disappearance, contrary to the prohibition under international human rights law. Furthermore, Indonesia is bound by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which requires that detention of children be used only as a measure of last resort, for the shortest appropriate period of time, and that detained children have prompt access to their families and legal assistance.
Human rights defenders urged the Indonesian authorities to immediately disclose Yosua Segenil’s whereabouts, release him unless lawful grounds for detention exist, and ensure his physical and psychological well-being. They also called upon the Indonesian authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the incident and requested oversight by the National Commission on Human Rights, the Indonesian Child Protection Commission and relevant humanitarian organisations. Civil society organisations, churches and community leaders were further encouraged to continue monitoring the case and advocate for accountability.
Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-081-2026
Region: Indonesia > Highland Papua > Yahukimo > Dekai
Total number of victims: 1
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.1 Yosua Segenil
diverse12 Indigenous Peoplesarbitrary arrest
Period of incident: 02/05/2026 – 02/05/2026
Perpetrators:
Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Military (TNI)
Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Police > Indonesian National Police (POLRI)
Issues: indigenous peoples, security force violence

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https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/military-disperses-documentary-film-screening-in-ternate/

6) Military disperses documentary film screening in Ternate

22 June 2026 / 3 minutes of reading
Members of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) reportedly dispersed a public screening of the documentary film Pesta Babi in Ternate City, North Maluku, on 8 May 2026. According to statements by the local military commander, the screening was halted because the film had attracted public criticism on social media and was considered by some to be provocative and capable of inflaming sensitive ethnic and religious issues. Press freedom advocates condemned the intervention, arguing that it constituted an unlawful restriction on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and access to information.

According to media reports, the screening was organised as a public film viewing followed by a discussion. Lieutenant Colonel Jani Setiadi, Commander of Military District Command (Kodim) 1501 Ternate, stated that the military had monitored the event after observing widespread opposition on social media to the documentary’s title and content. He emphasised that the decision to intervene was based on public concerns that the film could provoke social tensions. The commander requested that the organisers cancel the film screening, citing the sensitivity of issues relating to ethnicity, religion, race and inter-group relations (SARA) in North Maluku and the risk of politicisation. However, he permitted the organisers to proceed with the planned discussion without screening the documentary.

The intervention was strongly criticised by the Chairperson of the Ternate chapter of the Alliance of Independent Journalists (AJI), Yunita Kaunar. She stated that the screening formed part of the public’s constitutional right to freedom of expression and access to information. According to Yunita Kaunar, the presence of security personnel throughout the event, including the photographing and documentation of organisers and participants, created an atmosphere of intimidation and psychological pressure reminiscent of past authoritarian practices. She further argued that the mere possibility of social disagreement could not lawfully justify the dispersal of a peaceful cultural event that contained no acts of incitement or violence. In her view, suppressing critical artistic works under the pretext of maintaining public order poses a serious threat to democratic freedoms.

The reported actions raise concerns regarding Indonesia’s obligations under international human rights law. The peaceful screening of a documentary film and the associated public discussion fall within the scope of the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and participation in cultural life. Restrictions on these rights are permissible only where they are prescribed by law, pursue a legitimate aim and are necessary and proportionate. Preventive censorship based on anticipated public criticism or the possibility of controversy does not ordinarily satisfy these requirements. The reported intimidation of participants may also have had a chilling effect on the exercise of fundamental freedoms. Indonesian authorities should ensure that security forces refrain from interfering with peaceful assemblies and cultural events except where strictly justified under international human rights standards, and should guarantee that artists, journalists and civil society organisations are able to exercise their rights without intimidation or arbitrary interference.
Detailed Case Data
Document ID: HRM-CAS-080-2026
Region: Indonesia > North Maluku > Ternate
Total number of victims: dozens
#Number of VictimsName, DetailsGenderAgeGroup AffiliationViolations
1.dozens 
diverseunknown Activist, Journalistfreedom of assembly, freedom of expression
Period of incident: 08/05/2026 – 08/05/2026
Perpetrator: Republic Indonesia > Indonesian Security Forces > Indonesian Military (TNI)
Perpetrator details: 1501/Ternate Military District Command
Issues: other


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https://en.antaranews.com/news/419928/indonesian-vp-pushes-mbg-expansion-in-remote-areas

7) Indonesian VP pushes MBG expansion in remote areas  
June 22, 2026 10:31 GMT+700

Timika (ANTARA) - Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka pledged to continue pushing for the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas, including Asmat District in South Papua.

"It is important to highlight that we are advocating the president's priority programs in 3T areas. MBG, for example, must reach people here in Asmat," he told reporters after visiting the Sago Field School in Asmat on Sunday.

Gibran said the program could potentially be implemented in cooperation with local churches and school canteens to expand its reach in the district.

The MBG program is one of President Prabowo Subianto's priority initiatives aimed at improving the quality of human resources through better nutrition.

"In short, we will continue pushing the president's programs in 3T areas and will follow up on them after returning from Asmat," he said.

During the visit, Gibran also brought along five university students from both public and private universities to allow them to directly observe conditions at the grassroots level, particularly in 3T regions.

At the same event, Asmat District Head Thomas E. Safanpo said the MBG program is highly needed in remote regions such as Asmat.

"As the leader of a 3T region, we feel that the MBG program is highly beneficial for our people, especially schoolchildren, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers," he said.

Thomas noted that school absenteeism had been relatively high before the program was introduced in several schools in Asmat.

However, attendance improved after the meals program was launched because students knew they would receive lunch at school.

He also expressed optimism that providing MBG meals to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers would help reduce stunting in the district.

Related news: Gibran checks MBG food quality, school facilities on NTT visit
Related news: Gibran vows to improve MBG governance

Translator: Prisca T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Anton Santoso

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8) Gibran pushes development of Asmat museum as cultural showcase

  •  June 22, 2026 09:41 GMT+700


Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka urged continued efforts to develop the Asmat Museum of Culture and Progress as a platform to preserve and safeguard Asmat culture to highlight Papua's cultural strength.

He delivered the directive during a visit to the museum in Asmat District, South Papua, on Sunday (June 21), where he toured rooms and observed sculptures displayed as cultural heritage of the Asmat tribe, according to a statement received in Jakarta.

Museum director John Ohoiwirin noted that Gibran showed strong enthusiasm during the tour. He said the vice president took time to write down his message and impressions before exploring the facility further to gain insights into the artistic collections exhibited.

"While touring the museum rooms, he displayed great fondness for Asmat arts. He asked many things about our collections," Ohoiwirin remarked.

He added that Gibran’s enthusiasm was especially evident while listening to explanations about the philosophy and cultural values embodied in Asmat sculptures.

"Mr. Vice President issued a directive for us to continue developing this museum. I explained in my presentation earlier that this museum is envisioned as a means of Papuan cultural diplomacy," he stated.

Ohoiwirin further emphasized that the museum is among the oldest in Papua and highlighted his team’s commitment to developing it into a center for cultural preservation, education, and promotion to endear Asmat culture to local communities.

"We intend our development efforts not only to encourage Asmat people to preserve their culture but also to treasure it as a source of power and pride for them," the director concluded.

Gibran’s visit to the Asmat museum aligned with President Prabowo Subianto’s instruction to integrate cultural preservation into national development and promote Papua as one of Indonesia’s cultural centers.

Related news: VP supports Asmat sago school to boost local food

Related news: VP Gibran pledges upgrade of Asmat Hospital to type C

Related news: Minister lauds Asmat youth capable of constructing long boats

Translator: Maria Cicilia, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala


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9) VP supports Asmat sago school to boost local food

  •  June 22, 2026 09:37 GMT+700
Timika, Central Papua (ANTARA) - Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has said the government supports efforts to strengthen local food commodities in regions, including Papua, citing the Sago Field School in Agats Sub-district of Asmat District, South Papua, as an example.

Speaking on the sidelines of his working visit to Asmat District on Sunday, the Vice President expressed the Indonesian government is ready to collaborate with community and religious leaders to ensure the smooth implementation of food development programs.

"Today, we observed the process at the Sago Field School. I believe this is a very good initiative and deserves support," he said.

The Asmat Sago Field School is a sago development initiative carried out through a culture based approach and the empowerment of local communities.

Referring to his attendance at the opening of the 17th National Farmers and Fishers Week (PENAS XVII) in Gorontalo on Saturday (June 20), Gibran emphasized that strengthening local commodities as a community food source has become increasingly important.

Efforts to bolster local commodities, says Gibran, have been carried out for a long time, not only by the government but also by organizations at grassroots organizations, including church organizations in Asmat.

"It is the government's duty to amplify this and perhaps replicate it in other regions," he stated.

During his inspection of the Sago Field School, Gibran observed the sago-production process carried out by members of the indigenous Asmat community and distributed school supplies to local children.

Currently, the facility spans around six hectares and is managed collaboratively by the Agats Diocese and the local government.

In addition to serving as a center for sago learning and development, the site is also designed to strengthen the processing of value-added sago derivative products for the benefit the local communities.

Related news: VP Gibran pledges upgrade of Asmat Hospital to type C

Translator: Prisca Triferna, Raka Adji
Editor: Bayu Prasetyo

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10) VP Gibran pledges upgrade of Asmat Hospital to type C

  •  June 21, 2026 21:23 GMT+700
Timika (ANTARA) - Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka pledged to strengthen healthcare services in remote and underdeveloped regions, including accelerating the upgrade of Asmat Regional Hospital in South Papua to a Type C facility.

During a visit to Agats Subdistrict, Asmat District, on Sunday, Gibran said the initiative forms part of President Prabowo Subianto’s priority program to expand access to quality basic services in disadvantaged areas.

"I promise Asmat will have a Type C hospital. We will also intervene to improve healthcare services," Gibran said.

During the visit, the vice president inspected Perpetua H. Safanpo Regional Hospital and its facilities and met with several patients.

Hospital Director Yenny Yokung Yong said the vice president's visit could help accelerate the hospital's planned upgrade from Type D to Type C status.

She noted that the hospital is among healthcare projects included in the administration's Quick Wins program.

Yong added that the upgrade should be accompanied by additional medical equipment, including a CT scanner, to reduce patient referrals outside the region and lower treatment costs.

The hospital currently finances referrals for Indigenous Papuan patients, particularly residents of Asmat, through special autonomy funds, she said.

The coverage includes medical assistance and accommodation at referral destinations such as Jayapura, Merauke and Makassar.

Related news: Jayapura Hospital eyes role as Western Pacific healthcare hub

Related news: Indonesian govt to renovate 131 hospitals by 2027

Translator: Prisca Triferna Violleta, Cindy Frishanti Octavia
Editor: Rahmad Nasution


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  • Eve Warburton 
  • 11) Indonesia’s new resource nationalism puts the state first 
  • June 22, 2026

  • Indonesia’s new commodities regime reflects a sharper form of resource nationalism under Prabowo Subianto, using state power to subordinate private interests while raising serious concerns about discretion, coercion and political targeting.

    Last month, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto blindsided his own ministers, stunned the business community and confused global markets with the announcement that exports of key commodities – including palm oil, coal and certain minerals – would soon be channelled through Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, a new subsidiary of Indonesia’s state investment vehicle, Danantara.

    The policy’s ostensible goals are to expand state oversight of exports and combat tax evasion by resource firms while positioning Danantara as a major player in the global commodities trade. The details continue to evolve, and local business associations are in the meantime pleading with the government to roll the new system out slowly.

    This proposed solution to Indonesia’s long-standing problems of revenue leakage has been met with widespread scepticism – if the problem is dodgy invoicing, then why not reform customs and other taxation processes? That the government has not opted for more narrow technical solutions speaks to the grander political objectives at the heart of Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia.

    This new policy is just one in a series of interventions that illuminate the shifts underway in Indonesia’s resource nationalism – from favouring domestic business over foreign rivals to a more wholesale subordination of private interests to state priorities.

    Under former presidents Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Joko Widodo, resource nationalism defined Indonesia’s approach to governing its extractive industries. The government compelled major foreign oil, gas and mining firms to divest, while also gradually enacting the bans on raw mineral exports that now underpin Indonesia’s ‘downstreaming’ schemes.

    These policies did more than satisfy an ideological preference for nationalist intervention shared by elites and voters – they also aligned with the interests of Indonesia’s domestic business class. Their presidencies saw many foreign mining firms exit Indonesia, either put off or pushed out by new restrictions on foreign ownership upstream. And while Jokowi Widodo did consolidate and expand state-owned miners’ assets, he also made sure to deliver opportunities to major private interests. Resource nationalism benefited politically-connected oligarchs with interests in extractive industries by creating opportunities for them to acquire formerly foreign-owned assets that may otherwise have been beyond their reach.

    For more than a decade, Indonesia’s resource nationalism has served local capital as much as the state – while also generating political credit for government. Policies were shaped, often decisively, by the preferences of domestic business interests who had the means and political connections to either influence policy outcomes or take shares in foreign projects. Nationalist interventions were often marked by conflicts of interest and corruption, but they also had support across a broad spectrum of state and business actors.

    Today, Prabowo’s deeply held statist ideology, and his disdain for important factions of Indonesia’s oligarchic class, is driving a new kind of resource nationalism that targets the interests of those domestic firms advantaged by previous waves of nationalist intervention.

    The policy trend was visible soon after Prabowo’s elevation to the presidency in October 2024. By early 2025, his government was launching crackdowns on mining and plantation activities, disciplining major resources firms with unclear permits and expanding the state’s commercial involvement in these lucrative industries. The Forest Area Enforcement Task Force (or Satgas PKH) led by Prabowo’s key political ally, Minister of Defense Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, has confiscated over three million hectares of palm oil and forest plantations from dozens of companies accused of breaking forest protection rules. Some of these assets have been taken over by a new state-owned agribusiness company, Agrinas.

    Both Danantara’s new export regime and the ongoing Forest Area Enforcement Task Force are positioned as responses to long-standing problems that Indonesian elites – and ordinary voters – want confronted. There is little doubt that major resource firms engage in ‘creative’ accounting to avoid taxation, and many manipulate licencing processes and encroach on protected land for mining and plantation activities.

    At the same time, the application of Prabowo’s new brand of resource nationalism is highly discretionary in practice. These interventions and others, like the Patriot Bond scheme also overseen by Danantara, are thought to be disproportionately targeting businesses without the ‘right’ connections, or those owned by the ethnic Chinese tycoons who sit atop Indonesia’s rich lists – and with whom Prabowo has had an openly adversarial relationship.

    This background explains why the launch of Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia – enacted with little meaningful consultation across government, industry, and civil society – has not just deepened anxiety about erratic policymaking processes under Prabowo but also prompted speculation about how the reordering of rent seeking opportunities figures in the drive to give Danantara its new brokerage role.

    Prabowo-era policy trends are nonetheless in step with global trends. Many resource-rich countries are embracing and experimenting with more nationalist approaches to their resource industries against the backdrop of rising minerals demand and geopolitical competition. Initiatives that increase public oversight over extractive industries are crucial for ensuring states and citizens get more value from their finite resources, and in some contexts increasing state ownership can achieve these goals.

    There is also little doubt that Indonesia’s resource sectors need reform. More narrow interventions that target tax collection through firm auditing and improved customs regulation would help to reduce under-invoicing, while rehabilitating independent anti-corruption bodies and courts, and improving environmental and social safeguards in extractive projects, are indispensable for tackling the entrenched corruption and long-standing land disputes that plague Indonesia’s commodities sectors. But the heady mix of statism, coercion and nativism that define Prabowo’s brand of resource nationalism is not the solution.

     

    Republished from East Asia Forum.

    he views expressed in this article may or may not reflect those of Pearls and Irritations.

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    12) Central Papua Government Sends 250 Indigenous Papuan Students to Jayapura for Preparatory Courses
    IN PACNEWS READING TIME: 3 MINS READ JUNE 22, 2026  0 Author : Arjuna Pademme Editor : Nuevaterra Mambor

    Jayapura, Jubi – The Central Papua Provincial Government has sent 250 Indigenous Papuan youths from the province’s eight regencies to Jayapura, Papua, to participate in a two-month preparatory learning program. The participants were officially sent off on Saturday (June 20, 2026).

    The program is organized by the Central Papua Provincial Human Resources Development and Personnel Agency (BKPSDM). It aims to prepare Indigenous Papuan students from Central Papua for entrance examinations to Indonesia’s state-run service academies.

    Participants will depart in stages between Monday and Wednesday (June 22–24, 2026). The preparatory courses will run from June 25 to August 25, 2026.

    The students will be divided into two groups in Jayapura, with 125 participants attending classes at the Papua Hope Language Institute (PHLI) and the remaining 125 enrolled in programs organized by Ruangguru.

    Acting Regional Secretary of Central Papua Province, Dr. Silwanus Soemoel, speaking on behalf of Governor Meki Nawipa, said the program reflects the provincial government’s commitment to improving the quality of human resources in Central Papua, particularly among Indigenous Papuan youths seeking admission to state service academies.

    “On behalf of the Central Papua Provincial Government, I would like to express my appreciation to the Central Papua Provincial Human Resources Development and Personnel Agency and all parties who have prepared this program,” Soemoele said.

    The provincial government hopes participants will make the most of the opportunity. He noted that the students were selected not only to study but also to prepare themselves for a competitive selection process that requires discipline, academic competence, physical fitness, and mental resilience.


    “I ask all participants to uphold the good name of themselves, their families, and Central Papua Province. Follow the entire learning process in an orderly manner, comply with the guidance of instructors, maintain your health, and avoid anything that could distract you from your primary goal,” he said.

    According to Soemoel, the Central Papua Provincial Government hopes to increase the number of local students admitted to state service academies.

    He said programs such as this serve as a concrete step toward expanding access to quality education and preparing future civil servants who understand the needs of their own region.

    The mentors and supervisors involved in the program are also expected to provide serious guidance and closely monitor the participants’ academic progress, discipline, and readiness throughout the training period.

    “The success of this program requires supervision and cooperation from all parties. This opportunity must be utilized as effectively as possible,” he said.

    He added that admission to state service academies demands discipline, academic ability, physical fitness, and strong mental preparedness. The provincial government hopes more Indigenous Papuan youths from Central Papua will successfully pass the selection process and eventually become public servants who understand the needs of their communities.

    Meanwhile, BKPSDM Head Denci Meri Nawipa said the curriculum includes preparation for the Basic Competency Test (SKD), psychological assessments, physical training, CAT-based practice examinations, as well as lessons on civic knowledge and personal character development.

    According to Nawipa, the program is designed to prepare participants for admission to six state service academies: the State College of Accountancy (STAN), the Polytechnic of Statistics (STIS), the Immigration Polytechnic, the Correctional Science Polytechnic (Poltekip), the College of Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics (STMKG), and the State Intelligence College (STIN).

    “The examination schedule is still awaiting official confirmation from the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform. During these two months, we hope participants remain fully focused and demonstrate that Indigenous Papuan youths from Central Papua can compete and succeed in this highly competitive selection process,” Denci Meri Nawipa said. (*)



     Arjuna Pademme 
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