JAYAPURA – The Papua Provincial Government, together with Bank Indonesia (BI) and the Indonesian Navy, officially dispatched KRI Mata Bongsang (873) on the Papua 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Expedition mission at the Satrol Kodaeral X Jayapura pier on Tuesday (August 4, 2026).

In a written address by the Governor of Papua, delivered by Papua Deputy Governor Aryoko Rumaropen, it was stated that Papua’s geography, which is dominated by islands and vast waters, presents significant geographical challenges. Limited access to financial services is often a daily reality for coastal communities. The rupiah is not merely a means of exchange but also a symbol of sovereignty, identity, and national unity.

“Papua has a vast geographical landscape with challenging characteristics. Therefore, synergy among Bank Indonesia, the Indonesian Navy, regional governments, and all stakeholders is essential. This collaboration ensures that public services can reach every citizen without exception,” Aryoko said.

The Papua Provincial Government places high expectations on this mission. In addition to providing the exchange service for fit-for-circulation currency, the 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Expedition also carries the mission of educating younger generations and local communities to Love, Be Proud of, and Understand the Rupiah.

According to the Deputy Governor, instilling these national values aligns with the region’s development vision of achieving a smart, prosperous, and harmonious transformation of Papua.

“I extend my highest appreciation to Bank Indonesia and the Indonesian Navy for their tangible commitment to bringing the presence of the state to the 3T regions—underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost areas. This expedition serves as evidence of the state’s real, fair, and equitable presence for communities across Papua’s islands,” he said.

On the same occasion, Head of the Bank Indonesia Representative Office for Papua Province, Warsono, stated that although digitalization continues to be promoted through various programs, communities in the 3T regions still have a strong preference for cash transactions.

Ironically, cash circulating on remote islands is often in poor condition after changing hands thousands of times.

“The banknotes are often extremely worn out, their colors have faded, and even the images of national heroes may be difficult to recognize. Yet, people have the right to use proper and fit-for-circulation currency so that transactions can be carried out more comfortably,” he explained.

Warsono further highlighted the strategic challenges of maintaining economic sovereignty in border areas. As Indonesia shares borders with 11 countries, the use of foreign currencies is still frequently found in several border regions and remains a shared challenge. Reaching more than 17,000 islands is not an easy task.

“Under the mandate of Law Number 7 of 2011 concerning Currency and the Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law, we are required to provide sufficient quantities of currency, in appropriate denominations, and in proper condition. Reaching more than 17,000 islands is not something we can accomplish on our own without the support of the Indonesian Navy,” he said.

During the 2026 Papua Sovereign Rupiah Expedition, Bank Indonesia and KRI Mata Bongsang (873) will travel to five strategic locations in Papua: Pai Island, Owi Island, Numfor Island, Bepondi Island, and Yapen Island, from August 4 to 10, 2026.

“To the entire 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Expedition team and the crew of KRI Mata Bongsang (873), I extend my appreciation for your dedication and service. Carry out this mandate with full responsibility. Prioritize safety, establish good communication with local communities, and serve as ambassadors who bring the spirit of public service, nationalism, and brotherhood,” the Deputy Governor said in closing. ***