"This year is the first independence anniversary celebrated after the enactment of Law No. 2 of 2021 in Papua and West Papua. Hence, we need to harbor the same perception to develop our province in the special autonomy scheme for the next 20 years," MRPB Chairperson Maxsi Nelson Ahoren stated here Thursday, while referring to the 2021 law that becomes the legal basis for special autonomy status in the province.
The MRPB chairperson pointed out that Law No. 2 of 2021 delegated some 70 percent of the special autonomy fund directly to districts and cities.
As the assembly representing the Papuan people's interest, the MRPB will endeavor to encourage district and municipal leaders to optimize the special autonomy fund received by respective administrative divisions to fulfil the Papuan natives' needs, he affirmed.
The MRPB will also monitor programs funded by the special autonomy fund in the education, healthcare, and economic empowerment sectors, he stated.
"West Papua must be self-sufficient and free from restrictions in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic disparity among Papuan natives," Ahoren emphasized.
He also highlighted the need to ensure developments initiated by local authorities address the needs of the tribal, religious, and women communities in the province.
Ahoren said the MRPB lauded policies enacted by West Papua acting governor Paulus Waterpauw to accelerate developments, in general and specific aspects, and on affirmative actions for Papuan natives.
Related news: SKK Migas discovers hydrocarbon fields in West Papua
"We will push affirmative policies for Papuan natives under the special autonomy scheme to ensure empowerment in the education, healthcare, and economic sectors (continues), so as to demonstrate the national government's presence for the Papuan natives," the MRPB chairperson remarked.
Meanwhile, West Papua Regional Development Agency's Special Autonomy Department Head Legius Wanimbo confirmed that the second transfer of the special autonomy fund to provincial authorities is expected to be disbursed this month.
"The second phase of the special autonomy fund transfer, accounting for 45 percent, has been received by Teluk Wondama District and Sorong City treasury, while (the transfer for) other regions is in process and is expected to be disbursed this August," Wanimbo remarked.
Related news: W Papua cultural carnival seeks to promote unity
Translator: Hans Arnold K, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2022
