1) Indonesia invites Fiji to conduct joint military exercise

2) Indonesia Grants US$6 Million to Fiji  

----------------------------

https://islandsbusiness.com/news-break/indonesia-invites-fiji-to-conduct-joint-military-exercise/

1) Indonesia invites Fiji to conduct joint military exercise

April 25, 2025 _  Antara/Pacnews 

President Prabowo Subianto has invited Fiji to conduct a joint military exercise in Indonesia as part of the bilateral defence cooperation.

“We are also open to carrying out joint exercises in the military field, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. We welcome the Fijian military to exercise alongside us in Indonesia,” Prabowo stated in a statement with Prime Minister of Fiji, Sitiveni Rabuka, at the Merdeka Palace on Thursday.

Prabowo affirmed that Indonesia is striving to make the previously established defence cooperation agreements effective.

Additionally, the president expressed Indonesia’s commitment to supporting the development of a regional agricultural training centre in Rakiraki, Fiji, which is expected to start this year.

Prabowo also invited Fiji to send its young people to pursue education at educational institutions and schools in Indonesia, especially in areas such as vocational training, engineering, and agriculture.

He emphasised Indonesia’s commitment to ongoing collaboration with Fiji in enhancing human resource capacity and strengthening people-to-people relations between the two nations.

“We will increase partnership scholarships for developing countries and for the young people in Fiji,” he remarked.

Prabowo views Fiji as Indonesia’s important partner in the Pacific region since formal diplomatic ties began in 1974.

He highlighted that both countries share similarities as island nations, with common interests and challenges.

“We both uphold the principles of mutual respect between nations. We both uphold the principles of sovereignty, independence, and the rights of equality among nations,” Prabowo said.

PM Rabuka’s current visit to Indonesia coincides with the 50th anniversary of Indonesia-Fiji diplomatic relations.

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https://en.tempo.co/read/2000235/indonesia-grants-us6-million-to-fiji?fbclid=IwY2xjawJ7rchleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF4Q2I0R01SODU1dzlaQUZ4AR6yZnLorl15Ccr_bDgN5hdhz6G5EcogvmGj6sLUDNMaFjPZnrUoGyTr9qJhrA_aem_s3rFm4Uf3gatSgwkuo8JVg

2) Indonesia Grants US$6 Million to Fiji  

Reporter Hendrik Yaputra April 24, 2025 | 03:28 pm  

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka announced that the Government of Indonesia has provided a grant of US$6 million, approximately Rp100 billion, to the Fijian government. Rabuka expressed his gratitude for the financial aid and affirmed his commitment to continuing cooperation with Indonesia.

“There’s no need to be burdened by the thought of debt. That’s why we thank your government. We will ensure the continuation and implementation of the commitments made by your predecessors,” Rabuka said following a bilateral meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace, Central Jakarta, on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

The Fijian government, said Rabuka, will continue to respect Indonesia’s sovereignty. Fiji will stand with Indonesia in international forums to support the country's sovereignty.

He also mentioned that Fijian youth are currently undergoing agricultural training in Indonesia. According to Rabuka, Indonesia's agricultural education offers an excellent opportunity to develop Fiji’s agricultural potential. “There is no better place to learn and grow—from a modest farming community into a major force in the region,” he said.

In addition, Rabuka stated that Fiji seeks to enhance cooperation in the fields of defense and security with Indonesia. So far, Fijian soldiers have been undergoing training in Indonesia. He believes that Indonesia’s military experience can strengthen Fiji’s armed forces.

The 7th Indonesian President, Joko Widodo or Jokowi, previously issued Law Number 2 of 2023, which governs defense cooperation between Indonesia and the Republic of Fiji. The Oceanian nation is among the countries that reject Papua’s independence and support Indonesia’s sovereignty over the region.

The eight-page bill outlines six areas of cooperation. One of them is enhancing cooperation in the defense industry sector, including technology transfer, joint research, joint production and marketing, as well as joint quality assurance.

The defense cooperation between Indonesia and Fiji is agreed to be valid for five years. It will be automatically extended for another five years thereafter.

Daniel A. Fajri and Fajar Pebrianto contributed to this article

-----------------------------

1) DPR Condemns Action Of Free Papua, Aceh, And Maluku At The United Nations: Efforts To Disrupt Indonesia's Sovereignty

2) Malaysia, Indonesia to explore potential for large-scale plantations in Central Kalimantan, South Papua

3) Ministry Ensures Special Attention for Papuan Refugees

-----------------------------------

https://voi.id/en/news/478167

1) DPR Condemns Action Of Free Papua, Aceh, And Maluku At The United Nations: Efforts To Disrupt Indonesia's Sovereignty

 25 April 2025, 12:40 | Editorial Team 

Tengku Fajri Krueng and Muhammad Hanafiah from ASNLF, as well as John Anari and Martin Go from WPLO (@FreeWestPapuaNL)

JAKARTA Member of Commission I DPR RI, By Soleh, strongly condemns the actions of a group of individuals calling for the independence of Papua, Aceh, and Maluku in the United Nations (UN) official forum in New York, United States.

He called the action a form of provocation that injures the spirit of unity and sovereignty of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).

"On behalf of the DPR and on behalf of the Indonesian nation, we strongly condemn the movement," said Soleh to reporters, Friday, April 25.

According to the legislator from the PKB faction, the use of international forums to voice the separatism agenda is a very irresponsible and violating act of diplomatic norms.

He considered that this action was not only embarrassing, but also had the potential to cause distortion of information about Indonesia's domestic situation in the eyes of the global community.

Chronology

The incident took place on Monday, April 21, at the United Nations Headquarters, New York, ahead of the opening session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) in 2025.

This forum is an annual agenda that brings together various indigenous communities, international organizations, and UN member countries to discuss global issues related to indigenous peoples.

Moments before the opening session began at 10.00 local time, four individuals on behalf of two separatist groups Aceh Sumatra National Liberation Front (ASNLF) and the West Papua Liberation Organization (WPLO) suddenly raised a poster that read Free Maluku, Free Papua, Free Aceh" in the General Assembly meeting room.

The action was carried out quickly, on the sidelines of technical preparation before the opening of the forum. The perpetrators then posed and took photos with a courtroom background that is usually only accessed by state official officials, UN agencies, or registered participants.

The parties involved in the action were identified as Tengku Fajri Krueng and Muhammad Hanafiah from ASNLF, as well as John Anari and Martin Go from WPLO. They are said to have entered the courtroom as public participants who registered through the UNPFII open mechanism.

After the action was carried out, the perpetrators were immediately reprimanded by the PTRI (permanent Mission of the Republic of Indonesia) in New York. The Indonesian diplomat immediately reported the incident to the UN security, which then confiscated the posters brought by the four individuals.

UN security also asked them to leave the area of the trial because it was deemed to have violated the rules of the UN's official forum space and ethics.

By Soleh emphasized that this kind of provocative action should not be taken lightly. Although the UNPFII forum is open and provides space for civil society from various countries to attend and raise issues, it cannot be used as a justification to spread narratives that threaten the integrity of the country.

"They have abused the official UN forum for the benefit of their group. Obviously it is a violation that we cannot take lightly," he said.

He also reminded that separatist groups such as ASNLF and WPLO are not large domestic groups, but they have a diaspora network that is quite active in voicing the independence agenda in international forums and social media.

"The four people live abroad and try to actively voice independence in international forums. They are small but aggressively speaking on social media. We must not allow their voices to be the only narrative heard outside," he said.

He considered that the spread of separatism messages through this kind of international forum was an attempt to disturb Indonesia's sovereignty and build misleading opinions in the international community.

"Because they are trying to interfere with Indonesia's sovereignty and unity, we must not remain silent. We must be responsive and present to maintain the integrity of the nation," he concluded.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and PTRI New York are said to continue to monitor and prevent possible similar actions in the future.

The Indonesian government is also expected to strengthen public diplomacy to present a balanced and accurate narrative regarding development in Papua, Aceh, and Maluku, areas that have often been targeted by certain groups abroad.

---

The English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and French versions are automatically generated by the AI. So there may still be inaccuracies in translating, please always see Indonesian as our main language. (system supported by DigitalSiber.id)

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https://www.theborneopost.com/2025/04/24/malaysia-indonesia-to-explore-potential-for-large-scale-plantations-in-central-kalimantan-south-papua/

Borneo Post online

2) Malaysia, Indonesia to explore potential for large-scale plantations in Central Kalimantan, South Papua

POSTED ON APRIL 24, 2025, THURSDAY AT 9:53 PM

PUTRAJAYA (April 24): Malaysia and Indonesia intend to explore the potential for developing large-scale plantations in Central Kalimantan and South Papua.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) said the matter was discussed during a recent meeting between its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, and his Indonesian counterpart, Dr Andi Amran Sulaiman.

According to KPKM, both leaders also agreed to explore cross-border agricultural cooperation opportunities in West Kalimantan and North Kalimantan.

“The discussion focused on strategic areas of mutual interest, such as the rice, dairy, animal feed, coconut, and grain corn industries, which play a vital role in the food security agendas of both countries.

“Andi Amran also shared Indonesia’s agricultural transformation initiatives, including the use of smart technology, a three-season padi planting system per year, and the development of high-yield, resilient padi varieties such as IPB 9G,” it said in a statement today.

Mohamad was on a working visit to Indonesia that began on April 20.

The statement added that Mohamad also held discussions on cooperation in the padi sector, food supply chain management, strategic stockpiling, and food logistics systems with the leadership of Perusahaan Umum BULOG, Indonesia’s main agency for managing staple food stocks.

“The working visit reflects Malaysia’s commitment to addressing global challenges and building a competitive and sustainable food system, in line with the country’s pledge to strengthen the regional food security agenda as Asean Chair,” it said, – Bernama

---------------------------

https://rri.co.id/en/national/1473211/ministry-ensures-special-attention-for-papuan-refugees

3) Ministry Ensures Special Attention for Papuan Refugees

Author: Naura Sofia Rahmanita Editor: Sri Wahyuni 25 Apr 2025 - 10:25 English News

    Dengarkan Berita

KBRN, Jakarta: The Ministry of Human Rights has ensured that refugees in several locations across Papua Province, including in Maybrat Regency, are a special focus of the government. In line with this, the Ministry is committed to continuing efforts towards reconciliation and peace in Papua.

The displacement of Papuan people stems from conflicts involving groups advocating for independence or expanded special autonomy for Papua, and the Indonesian government's efforts to uphold its sovereignty over the region.

Director General of Human Rights Services and Compliance, Munafrizal Manan, emphasized that the cycle of suffering in Papua must be ended immediately. Furthermore, there must be initiatives to address refugee issues based on human rights principles.

"A Papua where all its residents feel safe, just, and prosperous can be realized through the spirit of humanity. Regarding refugee management, we have taken several measured steps as necessary," said Munafrizal during a dialog with Southwest Papua Deputy Governor and the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda) in Sorong on Thursday, April 24, 2025, as reported byrri.co.id.

Munafrizal said that in the short term, the state must ensure the basic living needs and human rights of refugees in Papua. As for the medium-term measures, efforts are needed to enable refugees to return safely to their original homes.

"At the end, resolving the refugee issue in Papua requires putting an end to the spiral of violence. This is necessary to establish a safe and peaceful life in the land of Papua," Munafrizal stated.

It is noted that 1,048 households (KK) who fled from South Aifat and Aifat Timur Raya Subdistricts, Maybrat Regency, have returned. Previously, after the last social conflict in 2022, a total of 1,220 families were forced to become refugees. ***​

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Indonesia food plan risks 'world's largest’ deforestation

 (Photos in article)

https://phys.org/news/2025-04-indonesia-food-world-largest-deforestation.html

APRIL 22, 2025   The GIST  Editors' notes 

Indonesia food plan risks 'world's largest’ deforestation

 by Marchio Gorbiano with Sara Hussein in Bangkok

An Indonesian soldier gives a thumbs up as he crosses a rice field on a combine harvester in remote Papua, where a government food security mega-project has raised fears of mass deforestation.

Keen to end its reliance on rice imports, Indonesia wants to plant vast tracts of the crop, along with sugar canefor biofuel, in the restive eastern region.

But environmentalists warn it could become the world's largest deforestation project, threatening endangered species and Jakarta's climate commitments.

And activists fear the scheme will fuel rights violations in a region long plagued by alleged military abuses as a separatist insurgency rumbles on.

The project's true scale is hard to ascertain; even government statements vary.

At a minimum, however, it aims to plant several million hectares of rice and sugar cane across South Papua province's Merauke. One million hectares is around the size of Lebanon.

Deforestation linked to the plan is already under way.

By late last year, more than 11,000 hectares had been cleared—an area larger than Paris—according to Franky Samperante of environmental and Indigenous rights NGO Yayasan Pusaka Bentala Rakyat.

That figure has only increased, according to analysis by campaign group Mighty Earth and conservation start-up The TreeMap.

Their work shows areas cleared include primary and secondary natural dryland and swamp forest, as well as secondary mangrove forest, savanna and bush.

"Usually, deforestation is a product of government not doing its job," said Mighty Earth chief executive Glenn Hurowitz.

"But in this case, it's actually the state saying we want to clear some of our last remaining forests, carbon-rich peatlands, habitat for rare animals," he told AFP.

Indonesia's government says the land targeted is degraded, already cultivated or in need of "optimization," dismissing some areas as little more than swamps.

'Tragedy'

Environmentalists argue that misunderstands the local ecosystem.

"In South Papua, the landscape and the ecosystem is lowland forest," said Samperante.

"There are often misconceptions or even belittling" of these ecosystems, he added.

Mapping done by Mighty Earth shows the project threatens a broader ecosystem range—including peatlands and forests the group says should be protected by a government moratorium on clearing.

"The tragedy in this project," said Hurowitz, "is that Indonesia has made so much progress in breaking the link between agricultural expansion and deforestation."

"Unfortunately, this single project threatens to undermine all progress."

Indonesia has some of the world's highest deforestation rates and Papua retains some of the largest remaining untouched tracts.

Indonesian think-tank CELIOS says cutting down so much forest could derail Jakarta's plan to reach net-zero by 2050.

For President Prabowo Subianto's government, criticism of the project ignores Indonesia's agricultural and economic realities.

He has made the scheme a priority, visiting soon after taking office.

In January, he said the country was on track to end rice imports by late 2025, and reiterated its energy independence needs.

The agriculture ministry did not respond to AFP's request for comment.

In Papua, planting is in full swing. In the region's Kaliki district, AFP saw farmers supported by soldiers tending rice paddies in recently-cleared land.

"This location used to be like the one on the right here. Non-productive and neglected land," said Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, a soldier serving as the agriculture ministry's food resilience taskforce chief, at an event lauding the project.

That characterization is disputed by Mighty Earth's satellite analysis, which found that at least two areas in the region cleared for rice overlap with government-designated peatland.

Indonesia's military is heavily involved in the project.

Local farmer Yohanis Yandi Gebze told AFP soldiers gave him "tools, agricultural equipment and machinery" for rice cultivation.

Speaking not far from Ramdhani's event, he praised the military.

"I see them cooperating with the people very well," he said.

'Cannot refuse'

Others say that is only part of the story.

Indonesia officially seized Papua, a former Dutch colony, in a widely criticized but UN-backed vote in 1969.

It has since been accused of abuses in a decades-long separatist conflict in the region.

"The community feels intimidated," said Dewanto Talubun, executive director at Merauke-based environmental and rights group Perkumpulan Harmoni Alam Papuana.

"Not all members of the community agree with this project, and they cannot directly refuse," he told AFP.

Samperante too reported local fears.

"Almost every day a human rights violation occurs," he said.

The defense ministry told AFP the military had the resources and "high discipline" to accelerate the food project while securing "stability and security" in the region.

However, there are significant doubts about the project's viability.

"Soils in Merauke are likely too acidic and the climate too extreme... to grow rice," said David Gaveau, founder of The TreeMap.

He warned that draining Merauke's wetlands for agriculture risks turning the area "into a tinder box"—a fate seen elsewhere in Indonesia.

Critics do not dispute Jakarta's food security needs, but said crops should be grown elsewhere on abandoned agricultural land.

"It should be done in places that are capable of absorbing it," said Hurowitz.

"Without destroying Indonesia's gorgeous, beautiful natural heritage and community lands."

© 2025 AFP

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1) Allegations on torture and killing of indigenous Papuans in Mebarok District: HRDs call for immediate independent investigation

 

2) Letter to the editor: Russian ambassador responds 

-----------------------

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/allegations-on-torture-and-killing-of-indigenous-papuans-in-mebarok-district-hrds-call-for-immediate-independent-investigation/

1) Allegations on torture and killing of indigenous Papuans in Mebarok District: HRDs call for immediate independent investigation

Cases / Indonesia, West Papua / 15 April 2025 

The independent media outlet Suara Papua has received information about another case of torture and extrajudicial execution in the Yuguru village, Mebarok District, Nduga Regency, Papua Pegunungan Province. This grave incident occurred amid an intensified military operation launched on 18 January 2025. Military members are alleged of torturing and subsequently executing Mr Abaral Wandikbo, an indigenous resident of Yuguru. The West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) has delcared Yuguru a safe zone for internally displaced persons (IDPs), calling upon the Indonesian military to stay away from the area.

According to Suara Papua, Mr. Wandikbo was arbitrarily arrested at his home in the Mane Hamlet on 22 March 2025 while caring for his ill father. Witnesses reported that he was handcuffed, interrogated at gunpoint, and forced to provide information on supposed West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB) hide-outs in the area. Mr Wandikbo was brought to Yimiri Village. Military members reportedly tortured after he refused to provide information tot he military members. His body was found three days later on 25 March 2025, dumped near a gardening area about 200 meters from a military post.

On 23 March, military members reportedly tortured an indigenous pastor named Mr Eniel Gwijangge and several villagers in the Engendumu Kuid Hamlet. The counterinsurgency operations have generated widespread fear among villagers in Yuguru. They have called for an immediate withdrawal of military personnel from the Yuguru area. The Yuguru area is extremely remote without access to internet network, hence human rights defenders were not able to verify the informationor receive photos of the victim.

Table of victims

No.	Name	Age	Date of Incident	Additional information
1	Abaral Wandikbo	N/A	22–25 March 2025	Body was found on 25 March near the Merabut Plantation
2	Eniel Gwijangge	N/A	23 March 2025	Was tortured after military personnel

-----------------------------------------

https://www.thejakartapost.com/opinion/2025/04/19/letter-to-the-editor-russian-ambassador-responds.html

2) Letter to the editor: Russian ambassador responds 

The Russian ambassador has responded to the views of an Australian researcher bout Russia's request to base its aircraft in Papua, published in an op-ed piece on April 17, in the context of bilateral cooperation. 

 News Desk (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Sat, April 19, 2025 


H aving noticed the article by Australian researcher Matthew Sussex, "A Russian base in Indonesia? Should Australia be concerned?", published in the Opinion section of The Jakarta Post newspaper on April 17, 2025, I would like to share my thoughts on issues touched upon in this piece of writing.

It is hard to imagine that any ordinary Australians should be concerned about what is happening 1,300 kilometers from their territory, about matters that concern relations between other sovereign states and have nothing to do with Australia. Perhaps it would be better for them to pay attention to the United States’ Typhon medium-range missile system in the Philippines, which will definitely reach the territory of the continent? 

When it comes to any challenges to regional stability, they are more likely to arise from the rotational deployment of large military contingents from non-regional states on Australian territory, including the provision of airfields for the landing of strategic bombers and port infrastructure for visits of nuclear-powered submarines. Particularly alarming are the plans to deploy the US' intermediate-range missiles in Australia, as well as the acquisition by the Royal Australian Navy of nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS trilateral partnership. 

The latter raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of established nuclear-weapon-free zones in the Asia-Pacific, such as the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone (Treaty of Rarotonga) and the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (Bangkok Treaty). Once again, I would like to emphasize the thesis that I have repeatedly conveyed here in Jakarta to local and foreign journalists. Military cooperation is an integral part of intergovernmental relations between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Indonesia.

This strictly bilateral topic is based on a relevant legal framework and the national legislation of each country. Interaction between the armed forces of Russia and Indonesia encompasses various areas. Such cooperation is aimed at strengthening the defensive capabilities of both sides, is not aimed against any third countries and poses no threat to security in the Asia-Pacific region.

As for the national interests mentioned in the article, which are allegedly under threat, I would like to draw a parallel with human rights which, as we know, end where the rights of another person begin. Likewise, Canberra's national interests cannot extend to the territory of neighboring sovereign states that pursue active and independent policies. The most important aspect of this story about “Russian base in Indonesia” the author himself reveals in the first lines of his opus, when he mentions the upcoming elections of the Australian parliament on May 3, 2025.

 It is clear that the leaders of the two main political parties, replacing each other in power and calling it democracy, are now trying to outdo each other, heating up the situation. They stop at nothing, and the time has come to play the so-called “Russian card”. This means to show to overseas mentors who is more anti-Russian and Russophobe. In this regard, I would like to remind them of the words of US President Donald Trump, which he pronounced in the White House on Feb. 28, 2025, to the Ukrainian citizen “Z”: “You have no cards.”

Sergei Tolchenov Russian Ambassador to Indonesia 

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Did we back the wrong war in the ’60s? Now Putin’s Russia is knocking on the door

 

https://www.smh.com.au/national/did-we-back-the-wrong-war-in-the-60s-now-putin-s-russia-is-knocking-on-the-door-20250417-p5lsl7.html

Did we back the wrong war in the ’60s? Now Putin’s Russia is knocking on the door

 Ben Bohane Journalist 

April 18, 2025 — 7.30pm

This week Cambodia marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Phnom Penh to the murderous Khmer Rouge, and Vietnam celebrates the fall of Saigon to North Vietnamese forces in April 1975.

They are being commemorated very differently; after all, there’s nothing to celebrate in Cambodia. Its capital Phnom Penh was emptied, and its people had to then endure the “killing fields” and the darkest years of its modern existence under Khmer Rouge rule. Over the border in Vietnam, however, there will be modest celebrations for their victory against US (and Australian) forces at the end of this month.

Yet, this week’s news of Indonesia considering a Russian request to base aircraft at the Biak airbase in West Papua throws in stark relief a troubling question I have long asked – did Australia back the wrong war 63 years ago? These different areas – and histories – of South-East Asia may seem disconnected, but allow me to draw some links.

Through the 1950s until the early 1960s, it was official Australian policy under the Menzies government to support Holland as it prepared West Papua for independence, knowing its people were ethnically and religiously different from the rest of Indonesia. They are a Christian Melanesian people who look east to Papua New Guinea (PNG) and the Pacific, not west to Muslim Asia. Australia at the time was administering and beginning to prepare PNG for self-rule.

World War II had shown the importance of West Papua (then part of Dutch New Guinea) to Australian security, as it had been a base for Japanese air raids over northern Australia. Early in the war, Japanese forces made a beeline to Sorong on the Bird’s Head Peninsula of West Papua for its abundance of high-quality oil. Former Australian prime minister Gough Whitlam served in a RAAF unit briefly stationed in Merauke in West Papua.

By 1962, the US wanted Indonesia to annex West Papua as a way of splitting Chinese and Russian influence in the region, as well as getting at the biggest gold deposit on earth at the Grasberg mine, something which US company Freeport continues to mine, controversially, today.

Following the so-called Bunker Agreement signed in New York in 1962, Holland reluctantly agreed to relinquish West Papua to Indonesia under US pressure. Australia, too, folded in line with US interests. That would also be the year when Australia sent its first group of 30 military advisers to Vietnam. Instead of backing West Papuan nationhood, Australia joined the US in suppressing Vietnam’s.

As a result of US arm-twisting, Australia ceded its own strategic interests in allowing Indonesia to expand eastwards into Pacific territories by swallowing West Papua. Instead, Australians trooped off to fight the unwinnable wars of Indochina. To me, it remains one of the great what-ifs of Australian strategic history – if Australia had held the line with Holland against US moves, then West Papua today would be free, the East Timor invasion of 1975 is unlikely to have ever happened and Australia might not have been dragged into the Vietnam War.

Instead, as Cambodia and Vietnam mark their anniversaries this month, Australia continues to be reminded of the potential threat Indonesian-controlled West Papua has posed to Australia and the Pacific since it gave way to US interests in 1962. Nor is this the first time Russia has deployed assets to West Papua. Last year, Russian media reported plans under way for the Russian space agency Roscosmos to help Indonesia build a space base on Biak island.

In 2017, RAAF Tindal was scrambled just before Christmas to monitor Russian Tu95 nuclear “Bear” bombers doing their first-ever sorties in the South Pacific, flying between Australia and Papua New Guinea. I wrote not long afterwards how Australia was becoming “caught in a pincer” between Indonesian and Russian interests on Indonesia’s side and Chinese moves coming through the Pacific on the other.

All because we have abandoned the West Papuans to endure their own “slow-motion genocide” under Indonesian rule. Church groups and NGOs estimate up to 500,000 Papuans have perished under 60 years of Indonesian military rule, while Jakarta refuses to allow international media and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to visit. Alex Sobel, an MP in UK’s parliament, last week called on Indonesia to allow the UN High Commissioner to visit but it’s exceedingly rare to hear any Australian MPs ask questions about our neighbour West Papua in the Australian parliament.

Canberra continues to enhance security relations with Indonesia in a naive belief that the nation is our ally against an assertive China. This ignores Jakarta’s deepening relations with both Russia and China, and avoids any mention of ongoing atrocities in West Papua or the fact that jihadi groups are operating close to Australia’s border. Indonesia’s militarisation of West Papua, jihadi infiltration and now the potential for Russia to use airbases or space bases on Biak should all be “red lines” for Australia, yet successive governments remain desperate not to criticise Indonesia.

Australia’s national security establishment remains focused on grand global strategy and acquiring over-priced gear, while ignoring the only actual “hot war” in our region. Our geography has not changed; the most important line of defence for Australia remains the islands of Melanesia to our north and the co-operation and friendship of its peoples.

Strong independence movements in West Papua, Bougainville and New Caledonia all materially affect Australian security but Canberra can always be relied on to defer to Indonesian, American and French interests in these places, rather than what is ultimately in Australian – and Pacific Islander – interests.

Australia needs to develop a defence policy centred on a “Melanesia First” strategy from Timor to Fiji, radiating outwards. Yet Australia keeps deferring to external interests, to our cost, as history continues to remind us.

Ben Bohane is a Vanuatu-based photojournalist and policy analyst who has reported across Asia and the Pacific for the past 36 years. His website is benbohane.com

1) Military members torture five indigenous Papuans in Puncak Jaya

 

2) Communities in Yapen Islands file complaint against mining company PT SPK over environmental damage

3) Closed hospitals and inadequate services indicate structural failures in healthcare system across West Papua

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Human Rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/military-members-torture-five-indigenous-papuans-in-puncak-jaya/

1) Military members torture five indigenous Papuans in Puncak Jaya

Cases / Indonesia, West Papua / 15 April 2025 

On the night of 13 March 2025, military personnel reportedly tortured three indigenous Papuans in the Puncak Jaya Regency, Papua Pegunungan Province. During the time oft he incident the five inhabitants were recovering from a tribal dispute between supporters of political candidates during the local elections, with two of the men suffering severe arrow wounds.

The soldiers ambushed the five men inside a traditional house near the new market in the town of Mulia around 8:30 pm. They threatened the five inhabitants at gunpoint, forced them to leave the house while insulting them as pigs and dogs. Three of the five victims were forcefully taken to the nearby military base in Puncak Jaya around 9:00 pm. They were arbitrarily detained, interrogated, and tortured at the Kodim 1714 military base in Puncak Jaya for more than two hours.

The military personnel delivered collective beatings during transport and detention at the base. Duirng the subsequent interrogation the soldiers repeatedly accused them of involvement in the murder of a comrade during the electoral conflict. Despite the violence they experienced, the three victims denied the murder allegations. They were eventually released after the commanding officer apolligised and offered a compensation of IDR 300,000 (approx. € 18) to them. All three were returned to the house at 03:15 am, without receiving medical aid.

Military members reportedly tortured P.W, L.A, and E.W in Mulia on the night of 13 March 2025

Victims of torture in Mulia, Puncak Jaya, on 13 March 2025

No.	Initials	Age	Additional information
1	P. W	28	Threatened at gunpoint and arbitrarily detained and subsequently tortured
2	L. A	21	Threatened at gunpoint and arbitrarily detained and subsequently tortured
3	E. W	20	Threatened at gunpoint and arbitrarily detained and subsequently tortured
4	Y. W	67	Threatened at gunpoint inside their house
5	E. W	18	Threatened at gunpoint inside their house

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Human Rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/case/communities-in-yapen-islands-file-complaint-against-mining-company-pt-spk-over-environmental-damage/

2) Communities in Yapen Islands file complaint against mining company PT SPK over environmental damage

Cases, Human Rights News / Indonesia, West Papua / 15 April 2025 

Residents from three villages in the Yapen Islands, Papua Province, have lodged a formal complaint with the Papua Representative Office of the National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) against PT Sinar Purna Karya (PT SPK). The villagers allege the company’s quarrying activities have caused severe environmental damage threatening their homes and livelihoods.

On 18 March 2025, Markus Wayeni, representing the communities of Yapan, Mentembu, and Anotaurei villages in Anotaurei District, Yapen Islands Regency, reported that the company’s mining operations have continued for approximately two to three decades and remain ongoing. Due to these activities, we have lost residential land, he explained. The impact of the company’s quarrying operations has caused landslides and river erosion, affecting residential areas, including my house and certain regions that have been washed away. That’s why I’ve come here to report to Komnas HAM, hoping they can at least help us address this issue, Wayeni told Jubi after filing his complaint at the Papua Human Rights Commission Office in Jayapura (see photo: Reinhart Kmur and complainant Markus Wayeni after submitting a complaint at the National Human Rights Commission office in Jayapura, source Jubi)

Wayeni described the most visible impact as damage to a public cemetery used by two villages, Yapan and Mantembu, where nearly half has been washed away by water erosion, with human remains from graves carried away by the current. The distance between the water and residential areas is no more than 10 metres, with the closest being just 5 metres. Some house foundations are situated right at the edge of soil fractures, which can be 2-3 metres deep. If these areas continue to be washed away, as much of it already has been, what will happen to our lives? he continued.

Following the meeting with the Human Rights Commission on 18 March 2025, Wayeni said several notes were provided that need to be completed. He also appealed to the newly elected Yapen Islands Regency Government to pay attention to the survival of residents whose livelihoods are increasingly threatened by the company’s activities. I hope the government gives full attention to these threats to our right to life and housing, as we only have the Mantembu land—beyond that are just mountains. If our land is consumed by landslides or erosion, should we retreat to the mountains? My hope is that with this complaint, the government will also take notice, he added.

Wayeni fears his village will become merely a story—a place where people once lived but has been entirely washed away. He noted that locations that previously could accommodate three to four houses no longer exist, which is why he is also requesting that the company cease its quarrying operations. Our concern is that 10-20 years from now, our children will no longer be able to live in the village and will have to move elsewhere. If they relocate, they won’t be able to settle for free but will have to pay and purchase land, ultimately becoming like foreigners. That’s why we’re filing this complaint—enough is enough, said Markus.

Reinhart Kmur, a legal adviser from the Papua Legal Aid Institute (LBH Papua), stated on 18 March 2025 that he has been authorised by the Mantebu Village community. PT SPK’s activities have impacted the environment, land, and residents’ settlements. He is accompanying his clients who have filed complaints with the Human Rights Commission. The basis for the complaint is the right to a healthy environment as enshrined in Article 28H paragraph (1) of the 1945 Constitution. Every person has the right to live in physical and spiritual prosperity, to have a place to live, to enjoy a good and healthy environment, and to receive medical care. Article 9 of Law Number 39 of 1999 concerning Human Rights also addresses the right to environment. On this basis, we have filed a complaint alleging violations of environmental rights by a corporation or company engaged in quarrying, a company owned by Toni Tesar, former regent of the Yapen Islands, he explained.

Reinhart hopes that with this complaint, the Human Rights Commission will process and conduct further investigations. If there are findings of alleged violations of environmental rights, he expects recommendations for legal proceedings due to environmental crimes. He also hopes the Yapen Islands Regency government will listen to residents’ grievances, noting that these issues have persisted for a long time, with many residents having complained to previous legislators without any response. The government should also be proactive and share responsibility for the environmental damage that has occurred. It’s not just the company that bears responsibility but the government as well, as they granted the permits. The government has a responsibility and obligation to uphold the human rights of citizens—that’s the mandate of the law, he stated.

Melky Weruin, Chairman of the Human Rights Enforcement and Advancement Team, confirmed that the Commission received the complaint from Yapen on 18 March 2025, with the complainant accompanied by Legal Counsel from LBH Papua. The core issue concerned alleged violations and threats to the environment related to PT SPK’s quarrying activities in the Serui area, particularly in the Anatorei, Mentimbu regions and surrounding areas. The complainant essentially conveyed that the company’s presence and quarrying activities threaten the environmental comfort of communities living in the Anatorei, Mentimbu regions and surrounding areas, said Weruin.

To follow up on the complaint according to standard operating procedures, Weruin explained they will record the complaint in the human rights complaint system. Then we will follow up by conducting a summary and analysis, gathering initial information and materials, he said. This includes gathering information about how the company entered the region, which indigenous communities are affected, what permits were issued, and whether there are agreements between the company and local communities. This information needs to be collected, Weruin continued.

These aspects are important to assess the situation. After gathering these materials, we conduct a summary and analysis, which becomes part of the complaint report before determining next steps. For example, through monitoring to see the actual conditions in the field or by requesting information, as we’ve only received information from the complainant so far, he added.

The Chairman of the Human Rights Enforcement and Advancement Team said they also want to gather information from the company, government, or other relevant parties to maintain balanced information. They cannot rely on information from a single source without seeking clarification from the reported party. Certainly, after completing this entire process of requesting statements and information, an assessment will be made to determine whether there is a real threat to the environment. If there is a real threat, to what extent do human rights violations exist? The end product of the Human Rights Commission is a recommendation—if the assessment indicates that human rights violations have occurred, the Commission will submit recommendations to relevant parties, said Melky Weruin.

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Human Rights Monitor

https://humanrightsmonitor.org/news/closed-hospitals-and-inadequate-services-indicate-structural-failures-in-healthcare-system-across-west-papua/

3) Closed hospitals and inadequate services indicate structural failures in healthcare system across West Papua

Cases, Human Rights News / Indonesia, West Papua / 15 April 2025 

The availability and quality of health crisis in West Papua has reached an alarming stage as public hospitals across the region experienced closures, strikes, as well as severe shortages of medical staff and supplies. This crisis is caused by miss-management and chronic failure of government oversight in ensuring the fulfilment of basic basic healthcare services. While the disparities between urban and rural areas with regard of availability, accessibility, quality and adequacy of healthcare is a long-standing issue in the region, it is alarming that recent cases also indicate a growing deterioration of services in the urban areas.

In the city of Nabire, Papua Tengah Province, over 200 health workers at the Nabire General Hospital (RSUD), including doctors, nurses, and midwives, have gone on strike, demanding months of unpaid incentives dating back to late 2024. On 25 March 2025, they submitted a formal notice of demand to the hospital director, threatening to conduct further strikes if their rights remain ignored. The Nabire District Attorney acknowledged receiving reports from the health workers but stated that legal action is pending an internal audit by the inspectorate.

The situation in Nabire worsened on 20 March, as health workers reportedly abandoned the hospital in the afternoon (see photo on top, source: independent HRD), leaving patients without care. A similar situation is unfolding in the Sorong Selatan Regency, where the only general hospital, RSUD Scholoo Keyen Teminabuan, was shut down by staff due to unpaid wages for November and December 2024. Even emergency and maternity services have ceased operations, leaving the entire population without access to critical medical care.

Structural failures and human rights violations

Government responses to these emergencies have been inadequate. In Sorong Selatan, hospital administrators stated that they informed local authorities, but no clear resolution plan has been communicated to them. Calls from the customary council and civil society groups for transparency and intervention have been ignored by the government. The closure of the only referral hospital in the region amounts to a violation of the right to health, protected under Article 12 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), to which Indonesia is a party.

In more remote areas like the Syukwo Village in the Tambrauw Regency, the health situation is even more dire. The local auxiliary health post (Pustu Warmandi) has no permanent staff or medicine stock. As a result, villagers have resorted to traditional forms of treatment and must travel long distances by boat to access basic healthcare at the health centre (Puskesmas) in the town of Sausapor. Despite having a functioning health building, all services have been seized due to staffing and supply shortages.

The health crisis is especially acute among internally displaced persons (IDPs) fleeing conflict zones in West Papua. Many displaced children and infants have reportedly died from preventable conditions due to lack of access to basic health services. In January 2025, HRD documented the case of a newborn who died after being denied care at the RSUD Sriwini and Yokagaido in Nabire. These tragedies are becoming more common and expose the deep structural neglect that indigenous Papuans continue to face.

West Papua is in a humanitarian emergency. The failure to pay healthcare workers, ensure steady supply of medication and provide consistent medical services has amounted to a form of structural violence against the Papuan population. Human rights organisations urge the central, including the Ministry of Health, and regional governments in West Papua to:

• Immediately pay all outstanding salaries and incentives to health workers;
• Restore full services at general hospitals in Nabire and Sorong Selatan;
• Ensure the deployment of qualified medical staff to remote and underserved areas;
• Provide emergency medical assistance to IDPs;
• Establish an independent oversight mechanism to monitor the delivery of healthcare services in West Papua.

General hospital in Nabire was closed and abandoned on 31 January and 1 February 2025

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