JAYAPURA – Leaders from religious and customary communities across Papua have shown their support and gratitude for the Acting Governor of Papua, Agus Fatoni. This was communicated during a meeting with the Papua Province Interfaith Harmony Forum and the Papuan Customary Council, shortly after Governor Fatoni arrived in Papua.

This demonstration of backing from religious and community figures is unprecedented in Papua’s history, as it marks the first occasion where an Acting Governor prioritized meeting with religious and traditional leaders immediately upon arriving in the region.

One of Papua’s religious leaders, FKUB chairman and Head of the Evangelical Churches Fellowship of Papua (PGGP), Rev. Lipius Biniluk, along with representatives from Christian, Catholic, Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist communities, expressed full support for Fatoni’s leadership. He praised Fatoni for quickly engaging with religious leaders upon his arrival.

“I, along with representatives from all religious communities—Christian, Catholic, Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist—extend our appreciation and support for the Acting Governor’s initiative to begin his duties by meeting with religious and customary leaders in Papua,” said Rev. Lipius Biniluk at Hotel Suni Sentani, Papua, on Wednesday (July 9, 2025).

Support and praise were also expressed during Fatoni’s discussion with traditional leaders. One such leader from Jayapura Regency, Ondoafi Organes Kaiway, warmly welcomed Fatoni’s effort to meet with traditional leaders across Papua. He noted that Fatoni made history as the first Acting Governor to meet customary leaders immediately after his arrival.

“This is the first time it has ever happened—a regional leader stepped off a plane and came directly to greet us, the landowners. It’s a great show of respect for Papuan customs,” said Ondoafi.

Support from both traditional and religious leaders indicates a positive outlook for Papua’s social and political stability, especially amid ongoing development and the upcoming repeat election for Governor and Deputy Governor of Papua.

In response to the warm reception, Fatoni said that the meeting was an initial step toward building synergy with religious and customary leaders, who serve as vital pillars of Papuan society. He also appreciated the active roles of FKUB and PGGP in maintaining harmony and unity.

He emphasized that religious and traditional leaders are strategic elements in ensuring stability and unity in Papua, especially as the province prepares for the repeat election, which is unique to Papua.

“Our immediate task is the regional election, where we will choose our leader. That leader will determine the progress. I hope we can maintain a peaceful, safe, and conducive environment. Religious and traditional leaders are role models for the people,” said Fatoni.

“If our religious and customary leaders continue to promote unity, harmony, peace, and togetherness, then there will be no problems or conflicts. Therefore, I ask for continued support from all religious, community, and traditional leaders to help maintain this positive climate,” he added.

Fatoni also pledged to carry out his duties as Acting Governor to the best of his ability, ensuring that government and development efforts run smoothly in the interest of public welfare.

“I have heard many hopes and suggestions, and they are all noted. Together, let us realize a safe, peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Papua,” he concluded. ***