Papuaaround.com – Former Commissioner of Indonesia’s National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), Amiruddin Al Rahab, has welcomed the establishment of MPR for Papua, a new platform created by the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) to address longstanding conflicts in the Papua region. In a statement made on Sunday, June 1, 2025, Amiruddin emphasized the need for inclusive public dialogue to help resolve the crisis in Papua.
According to him, this initiative must ensure that all segments of Papuan society are granted space to voice their concerns and ideas. “MPR for Papua must create a public space where various groups across Papua can express their views,” Amiruddin said during a phone interview.
He urged the MPR-led forum to reach out not only to civil communities but also to armed groups that have been part of the decades-long conflict. In his view, including every element of society is essential to formulating a comprehensive roadmap for peace that the government can act upon.
“Any resolution must begin by listening to all sides, including those who have been in direct conflict with the state. Only then can we form a complete picture of the problems and propose realistic solutions,” Amiruddin stated.
He also stressed the importance of coordination between the MPR for Papua and relevant ministries and government agencies. This collaboration, he explained, would ensure that recommendations and proposals generated through public discourse are translated into actionable steps.
“This way, every move taken will be well-coordinated and not just symbolic,” he added.
The MPR for Papua was officially established through a decree issued by MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani in April 2025. It aims to serve as a bridge between the central government and local representatives in Papua, particularly members of the House of Representatives (DPR) and the Regional Representative Council (DPD) elected from Papua constituencies.
The forum is coordinated by DPD Deputy Speaker Yorrys Raweyai, who is expected to lead strategic efforts to communicate with stakeholders on the ground and consolidate solutions that reflect the voices of Papua’s diverse communities.
Amiruddin further emphasized that the issue in Papua is not limited to the region itself, but represents a broader national concern. He called on representatives from across Indonesia to contribute to this forum.
“This is not merely a Papuan issue. This is a matter for the entire nation. Other components of this country must also take part in finding solutions,” he said.
The initiative reflects a growing awareness within Indonesia’s political leadership of the need for a more open and participatory approach to solving the complex issues in Papua. Years of unrest, marginalization, and demands for independence have placed Papua among Indonesia’s most challenging national dilemmas.
By establishing the MPR for Papua, lawmakers hope to foster a constructive dialogue and lay the groundwork for sustainable peace and development in the region. Observers will be watching closely to see how the forum balances diverse interests and whether it can deliver meaningful results.
