Territorial operations are expected to help expedite development in Papua region, considering that social disparities in society are still apparent …
Jayapura (ANTARA) - Commander of Indonesia's National Armed Forces (TNI) General Agus Subiyanto has affirmed that TNI is prioritizing a soft approach in dealing with armed separatist groups in Papua region.

He said that TNI will adopt a hard approach only when the groups raise arms because, in principle, a soft approach — which involves territorial operations — will remain the priority of the forces.

"Territorial operations are expected to help expedite development in Papua region, considering that social disparities in society are still apparent despite this region having a very high amount of budget dedicated," he told ANTARA after visiting the Jayapura Naval Base on Friday.

Subiyanto informed that the Papua Police chief and the Cenderawasih Regional Military commander have briefed him on the situation in Papua region.

"I and the National Police chief have received information on the conditions in Papua from Papua Police chief and Cenderawasih Regional Military commander," he stated.

He noted that TNI's presence in Papua is aimed at helping the government implement programs for elevating the living standards of Papuans.

"TNI will collaborate with other institutions, such as Polri (the National Police) and ministries, to improve the people's welfare," he said.

According to him, TNI will assist the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry in executing the program of developing a food estate in Manokwari, West Papua Province.

"TNI soldiers will be deployed to help the implementation of the program," he informed.

Subiyanto made the remarks during his visit with Polri Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo to Papua.

During the visit, the two leaders provided 2,500 packages containing basic necessities for people in Jayapura City.

Currently, Papua Regional Police and Cenderawasih Regional Military Command cover four provinces in Papua — Papua, Highland Papua, South Papua, and Central Papua.

Related news: Armed criminal in Central Papua killed in gunfight with army: Officer
Related news: TNI-Polri target boosting security in two provinces during election








Translator: Evarukdijati, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2023