Ambon Mayor Urges Public Services to Uphold Human Rights Principles

Ambon Mayor Bodewin Wattimena has called on all regional government organizations (OPDs) to integrate human rights principles into their public service delivery. This directive aims to ensure that services are inclusive, equitable, and free from discrimination for all residents of Ambon.

"As regional government organizers, we have a responsibility to ensure that the rights of the community are well-fulfilled, especially through quality and non-discriminatory public services," Wattimena stated during a Focus Group Discussion on strengthening human rights implementation in Ambon, Maluku.

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As regional government organizers, we have a responsibility to ensure that the rights of the community are well-fulfilled, especially through quality and non-discriminatory public services.

The mayor emphasized that upholding human rights is not solely the duty of the Ministry of Human Rights but a shared obligation across all government tiers. He highlighted the need for civil servants to understand human rights concepts and be capable of identifying and resolving issues within their respective agencies.

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All citizens must receive the same service. Do not look at who the person is or how they look, but ensure every community member receives fair service.

Wattimena specifically pointed to the Civil Registration and Population Service (Disdukcapil) as an area where services must be provided equally to all citizens, regardless of their background, appearance, or social status. "All citizens must receive the same service. Do not look at who the person is or how they look, but ensure every community member receives fair service," he urged.

He further requested OPDs to enhance cross-sectoral coordination to minimize potential human rights violations and discriminatory practices. Wattimena expressed optimism that Ambon can become a truly inclusive city if all regional bodies work cohesively, prioritizing justice and respect for every citizen's rights.

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We want to ensure Ambon is a city that truly respects everyone's rights. Everyone has the same standing before government services, so there is no more discrimination in public services.