JAYAPURA – Acting Governor of Papua, Agus Fatoni, urged the public to preserve peace and harmony in Papua during a statement delivered at the State Building on Tuesday (Sept 2, 2025).

“In facing the current situation in Papua and nationally, last Sunday all members of the Regional Leadership Communication Forum gathered to discuss how we can collectively safeguard our beloved Papua. Community leaders, religious leaders, the Papuan People’s Assembly (MRP), and the Papuan House of Representatives also convened to jointly declare an appeal for peace and harmony for both Papua and Indonesia,” Fatoni explained.

He added, “We continue these efforts through coordination and communication with various elements, including students, youth, and community groups, to ensure that Papua remains safe, peaceful, and harmonious.”

In alignment with Fatoni, MRP Chairperson Nerlince Manuar, alongside religious, traditional, and community leaders, issued a joint call for peace addressed to leaders of religious institutions, community organizations, government and law enforcement officials, the people of Papua, and groups planning demonstrations.

The appeal includes the following key points:

1. Religious leaders are urged to live with reverence to God and convey messages of unity, togetherness, and civic responsibility.
2. Communities across professions, social, cultural, religious, and student organizations are encouraged to exercise restraint and avoid engaging in or provoking destructive or violent actions.
3. Groups planning demonstrations are reminded that Papua is historically a land of peace, blessed by God’s servants and apostles, Ottow and Geissler, in 1855, and must not be tarnished by actions that harm social harmony.
4. Government and law enforcement officials are called upon to engage demonstrators using persuasive, humane, and dialogical approaches to foster trust and peaceful resolution of demands.
5. Citizens, especially those in Papua Province, are encouraged to pray and fast for the restoration of peace and harmony, promoting mutual respect and acceptance in social, national, and state life.
6. Everyone is urged to refrain from spreading hoaxes and to be mindful of statements on social media to avoid offending or harming others.

Fatoni concluded by emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts: “Papua’s peace is a shared responsibility. Leaders, communities, and citizens must work together to maintain social stability, mutual respect, and harmony across all aspects of life.” ***