JAYAPURA — The Papua Provincial Government hopes that regency and city governments will strengthen oversight of livestock business locations to protect the comfort of residential areas while also preserving the environment. This comes amid increasing public complaints about livestock activities located near housing areas.

Assistant I of the Papua Regional Secretariat, Yohanes Walilo, said the regional government is encouraging the implementation of strict screening in the issuance of livestock business permits. Such regulation is needed so that economic activities do not create environmental impacts or social disturbances.

"Livestock businesses may continue to operate, but their locations must comply with the rules. If they do not meet environmental and spatial planning requirements, permits cannot be issued," Walilo said in Jayapura.

He emphasized that the authority to issue permits lies with the regency and city governments. Therefore, local governments are being asked to be more disciplined in assessing the suitability of business locations, including taking into account their distance from residential areas and their potential impact on nearby residents.

Walilo added that communities affected by livestock activities may file reports in stages through neighborhood units, community units, urban villages, and districts. These reports would serve as the basis for local governments to carry out evaluations, enforcement measures, or business relocation if violations are found.

According to him, Papua remains open to investment and the development of livestock businesses. However, economic growth must go hand in hand with environmental protection and the interests of the community.

"We must maintain balance. Investment should continue to come in, but the environment and residents' comfort must also be protected," Walilo said. ***