JAYAPURA – The Provincial Government of Papua is preparing 250 satellite-based internet access points (VSAT) to serve remote areas across seven regencies.

This initiative targets schools, health clinics, and villages that telecommunications operators have not reached yet.

The Head of the Papua Communication and Informatics Agency, Jeri Agus Yudianto, stated that the development of digital infrastructure cannot rely solely on the private sector. 

“In remote areas, it is the government that must step in. We remain committed to enhancing digitalization in Papua,” he said in Jayapura on Wednesday (April 16, 2025).

According to Jeri, the government built 50 VSAT access points in 2024. This year, the number has been expanded to 250 points across seven regencies: Waropen, Biak Numfor, Supiori, Kepulauan Yapen, Sarmi, Jayapura Regency, and Mamberamo Raya. 

Jayapura City is not included in the program as it is already fully covered by cable internet networks.

The breakdown is as follows: Waropen, Biak, and Supiori will each receive 44 access points; Yapen and Sarmi will each receive 34 access points; Jayapura Regency will receive 26 access points; and Mamberamo will receive 24 access points.

The equipment is being procured through the national e-catalogue system, and all installations are targeted to be operational by August 2025.

Jeri added that each VSAT site will be equipped with portable solar panels to ensure continued functionality even in areas without electricity from the national grid (PLN). These facilities are intended for public use.

“For example, after school hours, residents can also make use of the same internet access,” he explained.

This initiative is expected to reduce the digital divide in Papua and strengthen the provision of basic public services, particularly in the education and healthcare sectors. ***