Political and Economic Interest Behind the Expansion of Papua

Plans for the expansion of the Papua region were heard again after President Joko Widodo visited Indonesia's easternmost region at the end of October. In addition to Papua and West Papua, there will be a new province on the island, South Papua, which is likely to cover areas such as Boven Digoel, Asmat, Mappi, and Merauke.

In addition, there is also Central Papua Province, which is likely to consist of Jayawijaya Regency, Bintang Mountains, Yahukimo, and Lanny Jaya. According to the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud MD, the formation of these new provinces will be analyzed first by considering many aspects, including the process of assimilation going forward.