New strategy behind separatism in Papua

Benny YP Siahaan, Geneva | Thu, 08/07/2008 10:08 AM Jakarta Post

Separatism in Papua is now perhaps the only remaining serious and long-standing separatist problem in Indonesia after the issue of Acehnese separatism was finally and successfully resolved. Following the Aceh peace deal in 2005, it is expected that the Papuan rebellion will follow in the footsteps of Aceh.

The Papuans’ (il) legitimate battle for independence

Harison Citrawan, Jakarta | Mon, 09/05/2011 8:00 AM Jakarta Post

Papua has once again come under not only the national but also the international spotlight. The situation was exacerbated by a leaked document about the Indonesian Army titled Autonomy of Papuan Separatists, on the Internet.

Many human rights activists were quick to voice criticism over the report. E. Pearson from the Human Rights Watch, for instance, wrote a subtle piece in the Huffington Post on Aug. 20, in which he clearly argues that the acts of some international supporters of Papuans are legitimate and lawful as they were not intended to harm Indonesia’s national integrity.

SBY’s Papua team ready to roll

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Sun, 10/30/2011 7:49 AM

As violence escalates in Papua, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono is ready to deploy his special team on Papua, established on Sept. 20, according to an aide on Saturday.

Velix Vernando Wanggai, the President’s aide on regional autonomy and development, told The Jakarta Post that the Unit for the Acceleration of Development in Papua and West Papua (UP4B) was ready for duty.

Ramses Ohee: Pepera (The Act of Free Choice) is Indisputable

Source : Bintang Papua, Monday, 01 August 2011 (via Indonesian Embassy Website)

JAYAPURA – The People’s Act of Free Choice (Pepera) of Papua, which is recently being discussed due to the plan of a seminar conducted by International Lawyer for West Papua (ILWP) in London, UK, has compelled one of Pepera’s prominent figure, Ramses Ohe, to issue a statement on the history of Papua.
During a press conference at his house in Waena on Sunday, 31 July, he insisted that the 1969 Pepera is indisputable.

Young Papuans Find Their Voice in Song

Lisa Siregar | May 17, 2011 Jakarta Globe

When the Wakhu Bhim choir performed at Pacific Place mall in Jakarta earlier this month as part of Festival Papua 2011, crowds of shoppers stopped by to listen.

Wearing grass skirts, known as sali, headdresses and body paint, the 20 singers from West Papua performed the anirei, a traditional Sentani harvest dance, as well as several spiritual numbers, including “Rock My Soul” and “Elijah Rock.”

The Role of the UN Secretary-General's Representative in Resolving the Dispute over West Papua (Part 2)

The chosen policy was widespread intimidation, threats and terror. The difficult economic situation was a fertile ground for propaganda, indoctrination and agitation. Despite provocations, the authorities pursued a policy of restraint and moderation in combating insurrection and armed confrontation and adopted a policy of clemency and leniency Accordingly, scores of political detainees were released in order to create an atmosphere conducive for the exercise of the act of free choice. The same lenient policy was also evident towards the question of the return of exiles who could then participate in this exercise. In sum, contrary to the assertions of the UN Representative, the rights and freedoms of West Papuas were upheld, there was freedom of speech, and political and other organizations were allowed to function in accordance with the laws of the country

The Role of the UN Secretary-General's Representative in Resolving the Dispute over West Papua

The UN Secretary-General’s Representative, Ambassador Fernando Ortiz-Sanz ,acknowledged early on that he “. . .was not given any political or administrative authority, not even a supervisory function”. Rather, his role was to “advise, assist and participate in arrangements which are the responsibility of Indonesia for the act of free choice, having in mind the interests and welfare of the people of the territory”. (Article XVII and the preamble. UN doc. A17723, 1969, p. 4.) “Advice” was meant “to express views, offer counsel, make recommendations and suggest ap¬propriate measures to the Government, having in mind the existing prin¬ciples of the Agreement”. (Article XVII and the preamble. UN doc. A17723, 1969, p. 4.). This was to be done through the modality of consultations with the representative councils on procedures and appro¬priate methods to ascertain the will of the people; the formulation of ques¬tions in such a way as to permit the inhabitants to decide whether they wish to remain or sever their ties with Indonesia; and the preparation of a list of persons eligible to participate in the act of free choice.

Act of Free Choice

The New York Agreement: Legal Basis to Restore West Papua Into the Republic of Indonesia (Part 4)

From those statements, it is apparent that the United Nations from the outset had a clear understanding that West Papua was a bilateral matter concerning an unresolved issue of decolonization in the territory of the Indonesian Republic. More precisely, the United Nations was aware that the whole process was an effort on behalf of Indonesia to facilitate the exer¬cise of its full control and sovereignty over the last part of what was once the Netherlands East-Indies.

As a consequence of the internationally accepted principle that colonial boundaries constitute the borders of newly independent states, it follows that all the territories, which once were a part of the Netherlands East-Indies, have since been transferred to Indonesia. This fundamental tenet has long been recognized under the principle of “usi possidentis”. Reflecting this new reality, United Nations documents of 1963 show that the issue of West Papua was removed from the agenda of Trust and Non-Self-Governing territories. The question of West Papua has always been a case of an incomplete decolonization process of Indonesia the facts of which have been already been set out in other sections of this publication.

The New York Agreement: Legal Basis to Restore West Papua Into the Republic of Indonesia (Part 3)

The Agreement was of supreme national importance to Indonesia from the viewpoint of building its nation and national reconstruction which at the time was still in a period of growth and consolidation. Towards this end, the Agreement was a valuable contribution for it succeeded in bringing about a better level of understanding between Indonesia and the Netherlands as well as demonstrating in the early years of the United Nations its success in bringing about a settlement between two of its member States. (1127^th  meeting of the General Assembly plenary  session of 21 September 1962)

In this regard, it is pertinent to point out that the Agreement resolved the following two basic issues : the restoration of the territorial integrity of the Republic of Indonesia; and revalidation of the right of self-determination for the people of West Papua. The Agreement contained 29 articles, supplemented by an exchange of letters and other annexes aimed towards serving the interests of the IrianJayan people like the rest of fellow Indonesians. It was this fraternal spirit that would guide Indonesia in its task of administering the territory following the departure of UN TEA. The people of Indonesia were so determined to help them that contributions flowed in from all over the country, from the rich and poor alike to promote the development of IrianJaya. In meeting its responsibilities, Indonesia viewed as its first duty the restoration of harmony among the people of West Papua itself as well as with the rest of the Republic. It did not view this challenge as something new or innovative. As a country comprising of numerous ethnic and regional groupings spread over 3,000 islands, the Indonesian people had always endeavored to live up to their motto of “Unity in Diversity”.

The New York Agreement: Legal Basis to Restore West Papua Into the Republic of Indonesia (Part 2)

The return of West Papua to Indonesia generated great enthusiasm among the peoples. Apart from fulfilling the provisions of the Agreement (Article XV), Indonesia was determined to ensure that West Papuas would enjoy the fruits of their new-found freedom. To assist them in these chal¬lenges, hundreds of Indonesians - teachers, scientists, doctors and nurses and civilian administrators - joined in the effort of UNTEA. From the outset, Indonesia had actively assisted UNTEA in the opening of new schools and public projects in the territory, such as scientific and agricultural projects. Remote areas of West Papua received special attention from the Indonesian Government. What was particularly heartening was that the population of the island voiced its enthusiasm by wholeheartedly participating in the nation-building process. Also noteworthy, was that a few hours after the UNTEA departed, the Indonesian Government appointed a native son of West Papua to the high office of Governor of the province. Such an appointment was more than what was called for in the Agreement, namely, to accelerate the participation of the people in the local government.

Lake Kabori

Lake Kabori

Stretching out with a beautiful panorama, it is a wonderful place for fresh water fishing; like goldfish, mujair (a kind of fresh water fish), and fresh water cat fish. Situated 20 kilometres from Manokwari town, this lake is easily reached.

The New York Agreement: Legal Basis to Restore West Papua Into the Republic of Indonesia (Part 1)

As far as Indonesia was concerned, West Papua was legally and constitutionally a part of the Netherlands East Indies. It is also an indisputable fact that the core of the Indonesian freedom struggle during the years 1945-1949 was independence for all of its people on the entire Indonesian archipelago comprising all of its islands. Proceeding from this basic premise, Indonesia viewed West Papua as an integral part of its territory that was forcefully occupied by the Dutch colonial authorities.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 8)

Meanwhile, in 1960, diplomatic relations between the two countries were broken after the Netherlands’ dispatch of its aircraft carrier to New Guinea waters in order to safeguard its on-going preparations for internal self-government in West Guinea. In response to such maneuvers, the Indonesian Government adopted a more assertive policy outlining a possible military take-over of the occupied territory by announcing the “In Komando Rakyat” (People’s Triple Command) i.e.;

1. to thwart the formation of a puppet state of Papua by the colonial power;
2. to raise the Indonesian Red and White flag in West Irian; and
3. to prepare a general mobilization to defend national inde¬pendence and unity;

Kaimana at dusk

Kaimana is a small port town in West Papua, Indonesia and capital of the Kaimana Regency. It is served by Kaimana Airport. Kaimana is part of a Sea Conservation Area in West Papua. Butterflies in the surrounding forest of Karora are reported to be on the brink of extinction due to logging in the district.

Prehistoric Village Found in Jayapura

Amazing finding in West Papua, Indonesia  (translated from Kompas.Com)

Editor: Benny N Joewono
Thursday, 3 March 2011 | 22:17 WIB

JAYAPURA, KOMPAS.com — Research team of Jayapura Archaeological Foundation has discovered a prehistoric settlement on Yomokho hill, Kampung Harapan, Eastern District of Sentani, Jayapura.

Research leader, Hari Suroto, in Jayapura on Thursday (03/03/2011), said the research had been conducted since 28 February to 2 March 2011, using the excavation method (echo) of land to identify potential archaeological findings in the soil.

The Beauty of Amban Beach

Facing the Pacific Ocean, having a wave altitude of 2 meters most of the time, this beach is perfect for water skiing and wind surfing. Located five kilometres from Manokwari town, this beach is easily accessible by all manner of transport.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 7)

It was against the backdrop of the aforementioned developments and the refusal of the Dutch to   enter into negotiations thereafter that the Indonesian Government deemed it necessary to bring this matter to the General Assembly at its ninth session in 1954. After full consideration of the matter, the First Committee adopted by a two-third majority vote resolution A!C.1/760 which was thereafter submitted to the General Assembly. Regrettably, the General Assembly failed to adopt the resolution despite the support of many member States.

In April 1955, the Asian-African Conference, convened in Bandung and attended by 29 countries, representing two thirds of the world’s population, adopted the following resolution:

Papua New Guinea Raises Concerns Over Arms Smuggling At Indonesian Border

BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific
February 21, 2011

Text of report by Papua New Guinea newspaper The National website on 21 February

[Article by Isaac Nicholas: 'Weapons smuggling a concern']

Western law enforcement authorities have raised concerns about arms smuggling into the province from Australia and Indonesia, saying it is a threat to national security.

Provincial Police Commander Peter Philip said his men had confiscated arms ranging from high-powered semi-automatic weapons to small arms and shotguns.

“Makkareso” Enthusiasm of Bugis Merchant

This article is encouraging in the light of multiculturalism in West Papua


The burnt down of Hamadi Central Market in Jayapura city, Papua, in 2006, could not be easily erased from Daeng Said’s (51) memory. It destroyed his asset in value of IDR 1 billion, a result of 20 years struggle in Papua.

If I don’t remember that faith in this life has been written by God Almighty, I would have gotten stressed out and mad, said the man from Pangkep, South Sulawesi.

Pasir Putih Beach

A soft white sandy beach with clear water with beautiful scenery, gentle breezes makes it a good place for recreation and swimming. Only 2 kilometres from Manokwari town, this beach can be reached by motorcycle, car, or public transport.

Papuan Graduates Prefer to be Civil Servants

Thursday, 17 February 2011 | 18:15 WIB (Free Translation from KOMPAS)

MANOKWARI, KOMPAS.com — Until now, graduates in Papua are still oriented to be civil servants and very few wants to be entrepreneurs. It is based on their paradigm that civil servants live in prosperous.

Yan Pieter Karafir, Dean of West Papua State University (Unipa), admitted almost 80 percent of graduates in Papua still prefer to work as employees, especially civil servants, to be entrepreneur. Daily influence of how civil servants live is the trigger.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 6)

Since the conclusion of the Round Table Conference, Indonesia had sought to find ways for a peaceful settlement to the question of West Papua in line with Article 2 of the Charter of Transfer of Sovereignty:

• a. In April 1950, an Indonesian-Netherlands Ministers' Conference on financial matters in Jakarta dis some preliminary work on the question of West Papua. Also a Commission comprising of Netherlands and Indonesian representatives was established to visit and make an investigation on West Papua. The Conference decided that negotiations on this question should continue, on the basis of the report of the Commission, at the Second Conference of Ministers of the Netherlands - Indonesia Union, at the Hague during 1050.

Papua community welcomes development acceleration plan

The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Wed, 02/16/2011 11:44 AM | Archipelago

Papuan community leader and city councilor Athanasius Allo Rafra has welcomed the government plan to establish a taskforce in March in a bid to accelerate development in Papua and West Papua provinces.#

"I support the establishment of the taskforce because the development of Papua and West Papua has progressed at a snail's pace," Allo Rafra said Wednesday as quoted by Antara.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 5)

Thus, no one can draw artificial distinctions between the Papua and Malay peoples. Mixed groups have developed in many parts of the Moluccas in the course of history. It can not be determined therefore that the West Papuans are an exclusive ethnic group. There were and continues to be Indonesians coming from other islands to live in West Papua. The people of West Papua also live in other islands such as the Moluccas, Sulawesi, the Lesser Sunda and in Java. Hence, close relationship have been established over the years between this region and other parts of Indonesia.

Indonesia Rolling Out New Plan to Lift Growth in Papua

Jakarta Globe
Camelia Pasandaran | February 16, 2011

The government has announced that it would issue new guidelines next month on boosting development in the restive provinces of Papua and West Papua.

The implementation of the guidelines, to be issued in a presidential decree, will be coordinated by the new Government Unit to Accelerate Development in Papua and West Papua (UP4B), the vice president’s office said on Monday.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 4)

Despite these unquestionable grounds of commonality of interests between the peoples of the rest of Indonesia and West Papua, Indonesia found it deeply regrettable and troubling that during the Round Table Conference, the Government of the Netherlands took a position contrary to its previous commitments. By reneging on its own commitments, the Dutch authorities insisted on retaining their control over West Papua. The reason being, it was widely believed, that the Dutch wanted the territory exclusively for settlement by Dutch-Indonesians under continued Dutch colonial rule. Indonesia protested and deadlock was inevitable. At the end of the Round Table Conference, the Head of Indonesia's delegation stated:

“Jamer” doctor who loves Papua

Dr Onny Suwardi Redjo MPH still remembers the shock on young doctors’ faces when they heard Papua still had frambusia’s sufferers. “Is it true frambusia still exist?” said Suwardi copying question from some of the new doctors.

Frambusia is not as severe as HIV/AIDS. It is easily treated with routine treatment. “This illness still exists because sanitation and health system in Papua are lacking,” said the Disease Prevention Head of Papua Province year 2000-2006.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 3)

The status of the Netherlands East Indies territory including West Papua, was never in question is further confirmed by the following events concerning the validity of Indonesia's position.

1. In December 1946 the Dutch Governor-General Dr. H.J. Van Mook reiterated the view of his government: "Decidedly not the intention of the Government (the Dutch Government) to exclude New Guinea from Indonesia".

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 2)

For Indonesia, this was a difficult compromise for what this envisaged was that the Netherlands military presence and administrative control would remain in Indonesian territory for the stipulated period of one more year. It also presented Indonesia with great difficulties to have part of its territory under occupation and have such position ratified by its Parliament. Therefore, it can be said that Indonesia's acceptance of this compromise was a reflection of its sincere determination to resolve through peaceful means in accordance with the aims of the United Nations and its own national policies, a situation that had the potential to disturb international peace and security. What made this position even more unacceptable was that the newly independent Republic of Indonesia had to contend with a dispute over its territory, when it was not a question of its making. (*)

Lukas: the Fish Caller

Tempo magazine
10-16 January 2011

He can summon different kinds of fishes at Doreri Bay, West Papua. Lukas Barayap got his ability from prayers. He believes man can communicate with animals as told by stories of Prophet Suleiman in the Bible and Koran. He guards and protects the ocean from threats of bomb explosion and potassium by fishermen. Bakaro Beach is now green. The waves are good for surfing. Not just in Doreri Bay, fishes in Toba Lake also listen to him. Tempo’s reporter Bagja Hidayat reported his skill of calling fish.

Standing on Bakaro Beach edge wearing a polo shirt and shorts, Lukas Awiman Barayap blew his whistle while throwing tree termites into the ocean. Weather on the second Friday morning of December was clear. Wind blew softly after last night’s rain poured down on Manokwari, capital of West Papua.

Indonesia making progress on rights

Indonesia’s military is largely moving in the right direction on human rights despite the videotaped torture of civilians in restive Papua, a senior US defence official said Tuesday.

Robert Scher, the top Pentagon official handling Southeast Asia, reiterated US concerns that the 10-month sentences handed last month to three soldiers over the abuse in Papua were too lenient. But Scher added: “We do see that there was progress in the fact that this was a trial that was conducted quickly” and was “open and transparent.”

Historical Developments of West Papua (part 4)

Prior to the Second World War, West Papua was included in the Dutch East Indies administration as the Government (province) of Moluccas with the town of Ambon as the seat of the Governor. This Government (province) was sub-divided into two residencies, the residency of Ambon, to which belonged the southern part of West Papua, and the residency of Ternate, to which belonged the northern part of West Papua. As the world knows, the Moluccas, with the town of Ambon and Ternate, are and have always been part of Indonesia. So is the territory of West Papua which was never mentioned apart from the Netherlands East Indies. It was as always has been looked upon as part of the Netherlands East Indies, and thus, also a part of Indonesia.

The Beauty of Jayawijaya

The Top of jayawijaya

Jayawijaya Mountains is the name for the mountain range that extends lengthwise in the center of the province of West Papua and Papua (Indonesia) to Papua New Guinea New Guinea. Rows of Mountains which have some of the highest peak in Indonesia was formed by the removal of the sea floor thousands of years ago. Although located at an altitude of 4800 meters above sea level, fossilized sea shells, for example, can be seen in limestone and clastic rocks contained in Jayawijaya Mountains. Therefore, besides being a heaven for hikers, mountain paradise Jayawijaya also a world geological researchers.

The Political Status of West Papua (Part 1)

The people of Indonesia had realised their right to self-determination after a long struggle against colonial ruler when they proclaimed their independence on 17 August 1945, which lead to the establishment of a free and independent Republic of Indonesia, covering the whole territory of the former Netherlands East Indies. Such a right, however, was challenged by the colonial power and an armed conflict between Indonesia and the Netherlands ensued. The conflict ended when the parties concluded a peace agreement under the auspices of the United Nations Commission for Indonesia resulting in the Round Table Conference, held at the Hague in 1949. The peace accord of 2 November 1949 was achieved as a result of the full recognition and acceptance by the Netherlands of the independence and sovereignty of Indonesia as reflected in Article 1 of the Charter of Transfer of Sovereignty (S/1417/Add.1) which provided :

"The Kingdom of the Netherlands unconditionally and irrevocably transfer complete sovereignty over Indonesia to the Republic of the United States of Indonesia as an independent and sovereign State". (*)

Historical Developments of West Papua (part 3)

Afterwards, Dutch policy was aimed at gradually disassociating West Papua from the Sultanate and at bringing the region under their direct control. The first step was taken in 1905 by granting the Sulatn 6000 guilders per annum in exchange for his rights to the southern part of West Papua. The second step was directed towards the remaining part - the north-west of Papua. But in this, the Dutch government met with strong resistance even from among the Dutch themselves. Dr. Hovenkamp, a former commissioner for the residency of Ternate, said: "It is a pure misconception to presume the absence of practical ties between Tidore and the northern and north-western Papua. There have always been close ties, but they have been weakened by our Government, who should have strengthened them for the benefit of the people".(*)

Mediator of seven tribes

Bram Wakaburi

In 1984, Yoel Abraham Wakaburi (50) was inspired to unite different tribes occupying their homeland at Bintuni Strait, West Papua. Initially, the obstacles were different languages spoken and tribal ego. Armed with his skill as field officer of agriculture, he succeeded in uniting tribal heads to sit together for discussion.

The invitation of a man commonly called Bapa Bram was positively responded. A year later, Wamesa, Kuri, Irarutu, Sumuri, Sebyar, Sough and Moskona’s tribal chiefs were willing to sit together at rumah adat(local house) Teluk Bintuni Communities Talk Organisation.

Historical Developments of West Papua (part 2)

When the 80 years' war between Spain and Holland ended in favor of the Dutch, they concluded the Münster Pact (1648) by which the Dutch obtained privileges and gained complete monopoly over all the Indonesian islands. This Pact was reiterated and reinforced by the Utrecht Agreement (1714) and by the Agreement of St. Ildefonso (1797). Henceforth, it was the Dutch who exclusively carried on trade with the Indonesian islands, including West Papua.

Historical Developments of West Papua (part 1)

The first records of the archipelago date back from the period of Kingdom of Sriwijaya in South Sumatra, which lasted to the 12th century and ruled over many parts of the archipelago. At about the same time, the Kingdom of Majapahit (1292-1521) ruled over East Java. During this period, West Papua was called Djanggi. In all the records dating from this time onwards, Djanggi was unquestionably considered a part of Indonesia, which at that time was named Nusantara. In a monumental book on national history, compiled and published by the statesman Gajah Mada in 1356 and written by the court-writer, Prapanca, we find that Indonesia/Nusantara was divided into western and eastern parts which included the present-day West Papua dan Papua provinces.

SBY holds meeting to speed development in three provinces

Nani Afrida, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta | Thu, 01/20/2011 3:24 PM | National

President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono held a meeting Thursday to accelerate development in three provinces; Papua, West Papua and Sulawesi Tenggara.

Vice President Boediono and ministers from the Indonesian United Cabinet (KIB) II attended the meeting to hear presentations from the three governors.

Allegations of deliberate human rights violation by TNI

"There have been such allegations in Papua and West Papua. However, we have seen no evidence that such incidents are part of a deliberate or systematic campaign by the TNI or Government of Indonesia. In Indonesia, as in all countries, isolated incidents of abuse can, and do, occur despite the best efforts of any military institution."

(Testimony of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Robert Scher, Asian and Pacific Security Affairs Office of the Secretary of Defense before the Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment Committee on Foreign Affairs, United States House of Representatives, September 22, 2010)

Source: US Foreign Affairs

An Army Post was Attacked in Merauke Border

Friday, 14/01/2011
Detik.com

Jakarta – Army Border Security Post at Merauke Province, Papua, was attacked by unidentified men. One army soldier was badly wounded on his shoulder and waist.

In the release from Army Headquarter, Friday (14/01/2011), the attacked border security unit was Infantry Battalion 132 of Operation Command 17/XVII called Nasem Post.

Developing capacities for special autonomy in Papua

By Max Demetouw  and Mochamad Indrawan

Peace and reconciliation have yet to settle in Papua. Papua's political elite who are having difficulties uniting have yet to sit down. H.S. Dillon of the Partnership for Governance Reform in Indonesia noted that it is imperative that the local leaders negotiate continuously, and reach agreements on the main governance issues.

The people of Papua need to determine the future of Papua. The dialogs and consultations should be carefully facilitated, and should integrate the analytical approach with traditional methods of consensus building.

China to invest in Papua

WP-Update

The company will invest up to a billion dollars

Vice President Boediono offers the chance to invest in the Mamberamo River power plant in Papua to Chinese investors.

“The vice president wanted investors not only to exploit the natural resources but also build infrastructure to be integrated with other industries,” Yopie Hidayat said after a meeting with a delegation from the State Development and Investment Corporation, the Chinese government’s investment arm.

Meanwhile, the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) meet with Chinese-owned Metal China Corporation (MCC) to discuss investments in mining in Papua.

Indonesia rights body reports torture in Papua

AFP
The National Human Rights Commission has submitted to President Yudhoyono a report on its investigations

Indonesia’s top human rights body on Thursday urged President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to take action against “serious” rights violations by security forces in Papua region, the most eastern provinces of Indonesia.

The National Human Rights Commission has submitted to Yudhoyono a report on its investigations, including alleged torture of Papuans by soldiers in Puncak Jaya district last May, its chairman Ifdhal Kasim told AFP.

China to build ports in Papua

Portworld
 
Chinese representatives and Indonesian government officials will discuss port investment opportunities in Indonesia

Nine Chinese companies are interested in building seaports and airports in the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua, according to media reports.

Representatives of the companies will meet with Indonesia’s government officials and will be presented with possible investment opportunities in the Papua and West Papua regions.

The true teacher of Papua

Frederick Sitaung

“We here need teachers, not birds!” So goes the joke popular among people in Merauke, Papua, to mock teachers who frequently ran off from school to visit bars or night clubs mushroomed in the city. Stories of runaway teacher leaving students alone are common in the deep inland of Merauke.

When other teachers chose to escape, Frederick Sitaung (35) chose to stay as the only teacher in Poepe Village, Merauke, Papua. He endured from a week of no food, nearly arrowed by student’s parent to months of late salaries but did not falter.