JAYAPURA – Acting Governor of Papua, Agus Fatoni, attended the inauguration and handover of the Regional Leadership Council (DPD) of the Indonesian Christian Youth Movement (GAMKI) of Papua Province for the 2025–2028 term. The event was held at GPDP El Uzai, Jayapura, Papua, on Monday (August 18, 2025).

The inauguration took place a day after Indonesia celebrated the 80th Anniversary of Independence. This occasion was considered meaningful as it reminded participants of the spirit and sacrifices of the nation’s founders in achieving independence.

In his remarks, Fatoni emphasized that the inauguration was not merely a change of leadership but a passing of the baton of responsibility. He underlined that it carried a great mandate for Papua’s Christian youth to continue creating, innovating, and contributing to society, the church, and the nation.

“Today, we no longer take up arms against colonial powers. Instead, we raise ideas, works, and services to fight ignorance, poverty, injustice, and division. Indonesian Christian youth must rise as the next generation to safeguard unity, strengthen tolerance, and become the driving force of innovation and transformation,” Fatoni said.

Fatoni highlighted that GAMKI, as a Christian youth organization born from the spirit of nationalism, has a strategic role in nurturing young cadres, strengthening unity, and producing leaders with integrity who are committed to advancing the nation.

On this occasion, Fatoni expressed his appreciation to the previous GAMKI leadership for their dedication and contribution. He also encouraged the newly inaugurated leadership for the 2025–2028 term to continue serving as a strategic partner of the government in developing Papua, particularly in improving human resource quality, strengthening tolerance, empowering the economy, and preserving the environment.

Furthermore, Fatoni encouraged GAMKI to take an active role in youth leadership training, strengthening religious moderation, as well as developing entrepreneurship and youth MSMEs. According to him, such steps are concrete ways of filling independence with productivity and self-reliance.

“Today’s inauguration is not the end, but the beginning of a great responsibility. I urge all newly inaugurated GAMKI leaders to maintain unity, expand collaboration, and continue to be the light and salt for the people of Papua,” Fatoni explained.

“With firm faith, strong national insight, and a solid work ethic, I am confident that GAMKI Papua will make real contributions to building a safe, peaceful, and prosperous Papua,” he concluded. ***