AHY Emphasizes Papua’s Development Must Not Harm the Environment

JAYAPURA, KOMPAS.com - Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) emphasized the importance of collaboration between the central and regional governments to accelerate development in Papua, particularly in resolving issues related to spatial planning and land.

According to AHY, spatial planning and land status require serious attention to prevent overlaps that could potentially hinder development, including matters concerning customary land.

“Development can come to a halt or be delayed if there are problems with regional spatial planning caused by unclear land or territory status,” AHY said.

He made these remarks while leading a Coordination Meeting on Accelerating Infrastructure Development, Connectivity, and Regional Development in Papua at the Papua Governor’s Office in Jayapura on Friday (18/9/2026).

AHY stated that the central and regional governments must work as one team to identify various development issues, gather input, and seek solutions together.

“I closed by reminding that the central and local governments are one team. We are not opposing each other, nor are we trying to figure out who is right or wrong,” he stressed.

Beyond spatial planning and land issues, AHY highlighted that Papua’s accelerated development must still prioritize environmental sustainability.

He noted that Papua’s natural resources should bring the greatest benefits to the community without sacrificing environmental preservation.

“We want to continue honoring the Land of Papua by not damaging the environment,” AHY said.

During the meeting, the central and regional governments also agreed on the importance of cross-sectoral consolidation by aligning targets, data, policies, programs, and development budgets.

AHY added that accelerating Papua’s development also requires coordination with representatives in the House of Representatives (DPR RI), provincial DPRD, and regency/city DPRD.

“We improve what we can, seeking solutions as quickly as possible for our people,” he concluded.