President Prabowo Emphasizes Acceleration of Development in Papua as Key to National Equity

President Prabowo gives directives to all Regional Heads of Papua and the Executive Committee for the Acceleration of Special Autonomy Development in Papua at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Tuesday (12/16). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat/Muchlis Jr)

President Prabowo gave directives to all Regional Heads of Papua and the Executive Committee for the Acceleration of Special Autonomy Development in Papua at the State Palace, Jakarta, on Tuesday (12/16). President Prabowo started his directives by reminding the Regional Heads of the importance of national solidarity in facing disasters that have occurred in several regions, including Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

President Prabowo emphasized that amid adversity, the nation’s development and transformation must not come to a halt. “In the face of adversities, obstacles, and challenges, we must work even harder and strengthen our efforts to continue the process of transforming our nation,” stated the President.

Moreover, President Prabowo also emphasized that Indonesia’s transformation must be carried out evenly accross all regions in Indonesia without exception. President Prabowo also underscored that eradicating poverty and underdevelopment are fundamental prerequisite for achieving a modern state.

“We can’t accept the reality that today some of our people are living in hardship, deprivation, or even hunger,” said the President.

On this occasion, President Prabowo also highlighted the position of Indonesia as one of the world’s major economic powers, which must be accompanied by good governance and equitable distribution of development outcomes. He called on all elements of leadership at both the central and regional levels, including the Acceleration Committee, to join hands in managing the nation’s wealth wisely, honestly, and responsibly, enabling all Indonesians to enjoy it.

President Prabowo also reaffirmed the commitment of central Government to carry out internal reforms, especially on law enforcement and corruption eradication. “Corruption, fraud, abuse of power, the pursuit of personal or group interests from state resources, and allowing national wealth to be stolen or smuggled ultimately place a heavier burden on the lives of all our people,” said the President.

President Prabowo furthermore emphasized that the Government will not hesitate to take firm action against officials who fail to exercise their mandate responsibly. He stressed that public office is a form of service to the state and the people.

“Those who are unable to faithfully fulfill their duties to the people are welcome to step down from positions of service to the state and the public,” concluded the President. (Bureau of Press, Media, and Information of the Presidential Secretariat) (TCUD/MUR)