Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Yahukimo in Highland Papua on Tuesday, urging closer coordination between the Indonesian military (TNI) and police (Polri). He emphasized that regional stability is a fundamental requirement for the delivery of priority government programs in the remote district.
Security as a Prerequisite for Development
During a dialogue at a military district command base in Dekai on April 21, Gibran stressed that security in Yahukimo and surrounding areas is essential. He noted that many government initiatives can only be expanded once stability is fully ensured.
The Vice President expressed gratitude for the hard function of the TNI and Polri but called for continued efforts to strengthen security. This approach follows a directive from President Prabowo Subianto to prioritize stability as the foundation for accelerating program delivery in vulnerable regions.
Key National Initiatives
Gibran highlighted several people-oriented programs initiated by President Prabowo Subianto that are intended to benefit local residents. These priority initiatives include the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program and Free Health Screening (CKG).
the government is focusing on the provision of subsidized housing and the implementation of the Red and White Village Cooperatives program. The Vice President stated that these programs are designed to ensure that residents in remote areas can access essential services.
Addressing Regional Risks
The visit underscores the ongoing challenges in Yahukimo, which remains prone to security risks linked to armed separatist groups. These groups have periodically disrupted development efforts and public services in various parts of Papua.
Gibran’s presence in the region signals the government’s intention to strengthen its presence and improve service delivery. This move could lead to a more consistent implementation of national development programs if security risks are mitigated.
The Vice President was accompanied by several high-ranking officials, including Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago and Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk. Also present were Highland Papua Deputy Governor Ones Pahabol and Velix Wanggai, head of the executive committee overseeing the acceleration of Papua’s special autonomy development.
Future efforts in the region may focus on expanding these priority programs as stability improves. A possible next step could involve further inspections of infrastructure to ensure the Red and White Village Cooperatives and housing projects are reaching the intended populations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What priority programs did Vice President Gibran mention?
The priority programs mentioned include Free Nutritious Meals (MBG), Free Health Screening (CKG), subsidized housing, and the Red and White Village Cooperatives program.

Why is security considered essential in Yahukimo?
Security is viewed as a prerequisite for implementing government programs as the region is prone to risks from armed separatist groups that have disrupted public services and development.
Who accompanied the Vice President during his visit?
He was accompanied by Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago, Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk, Highland Papua Deputy Governor Ones Pahabol, and Velix Wanggai.
How can the government best balance security measures with the delivery of social services in remote regions?
