Why Does Creating New Provinces in Papua Pose Some Risks?

The House of Representatives ratified the Law (RUU) on the Establishment of the Southwest Papua Province on Nov 17. House Commission II member Guspardi Gaus said the purpose of new regional administrations in Papua was contained in Article 93 of Government Regulation No. 106/2021 on the authority and institutional implementation of Papua's special autonomy. It aims to accelerate infrastructure development, improve public services, and increase the welfare and dignity of the Indigenous Papuans (OAP). He wished the law could also help overcome potential conflicts in the area.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian said ratifying the Law on the Southwest Papua Province was a historic milestone because it created the 38th province in Indonesia. Tito reminded all stakeholders to work together in managing the area.