Papuaaround.com – West Papua Governor Dominggus Mandacan has called on the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), particularly Kodam XVIII/Kasuari, to offer broader opportunities for Indigenous Papuans (OAP) to join as soldiers.
Speaking after attending the 80th anniversary ceremony of the TNI at Kodam XVIII/Kasuari Field in Manokwari on Sunday, Dominggus emphasized the importance of inclusive recruitment to strengthen both the military and the local community.
“We hope the TNI will provide greater opportunities for Indigenous Papuans to become soldiers,” he stated.
According to Dominggus, the West Papua Provincial Government has been coordinating with the regional military commander and deputy commander to ensure that future recruitment within the TNI in West Papua takes into account proper representation of OAP. He said the initiative aims not only to open new employment opportunities but also to reinforce Papuans’ sense of belonging toward the military institution.
“I have already communicated with the Pangdam and Kasdam that whenever new recruitment takes place at Kodam Kasuari, we expect more space for OAP so they can have fair access to job opportunities,” he added.
The governor noted that both provincial and district governments are ready to provide support, including funding for training and education programs for prospective Indigenous Papuan recruits.
Dominggus also pointed out that, in recent years, there have been no special admissions for OAP through the Special Autonomy (Otsus) pathway. Nonetheless, he expressed gratitude that the latest TNI recruitment process had shown a relatively balanced proportion between Indigenous and non-Indigenous applicants.
Looking ahead, Dominggus hopes that the central government and the TNI will consider reopening special recruitment programs for Papuan youths, similar to initiatives carried out in previous years.
“The West Papua Provincial Government is ready to fund the initial stages of the program until the candidates officially become part of the TNI and are fully supported by the state,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Dominggus reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the TNI’s programs and policies, especially those implemented by Kodam XVIII/Kasuari, in maintaining security and promoting development across West Papua.
He underscored that the TNI was born from the people, by the people, and for the people, and therefore deserves full support from local governments in carrying out its national duties—particularly in safeguarding peace and stability in the Papua region.
The governor also conveyed appreciation for the TNI’s dedication and contribution to preserving regional stability and serving as a reliable partner in West Papua’s development.
“We sincerely thank the TNI, especially Kodam XVIII/Kasuari, for providing a sense of security and consistently supporting the government’s development programs in West Papua,” he said.