Indonesian ministers inspect South Papua infrastructure projects

Indonesian Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk and Public Works Deputy Minister Diana Kusumastuti inspected key infrastructure projects in South Papua on Wednesday, July 15. The visit focused on accelerating the development of the central government area, water resources, irrigation systems, and coastal defenses to ensure they meet their targets.

These developments are considered foundational for public services and strengthening the new autonomous regions in Papua. The inspection began with the DOB-Jembatan Netto access road, a primary route to the South Papua Central Government Area. Reports indicate construction is ahead of schedule and expected to finish early.

Haluk praised the progress but stressed the importance of quality work. "This progress is commendable. The most important thing is to maintain the quality of work so that the public can soon feel the benefits of connectivity to the Central Government Area," she stated. She also highlighted efforts to designate the central government areas of the four new Papuan autonomous regions as National Strategic Projects to secure central government funding.

The officials also reviewed the construction of the South Papua Governor's Office, the South Papua Regional Representative Council Office, and the South Papua People's Council Office. Haluk noted that government buildings should enhance public services, making them faster, easier, and more accessible. The inspection extended to the Efata Mayo Dam, planned as a water source for the central government area and for agriculture and tourism, and the Waninggap Irrigation Area to support rice farming and land optimization in Merauke Regency. Haluk underscored the significance of water resource infrastructure for national food security and economic growth.