JAYAPURA – Papua Governor Mathius Fakhiri views the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence as a momentum to realize sovereignty through the welfare of the people. He said independence must provide people with the opportunity to enjoy freedom and improve their well-being.

Fakhiri made the statement after attending the ceremony commemorating the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence at Mandala Stadium in Jayapura on Monday (August 17, 2026).

“If sovereignty means anything, it means that people can enjoy the freedom to pursue their well-being,” Fakhiri said.

He said the spirit of independence needs to be realized through the implementation of various government programs that provide direct benefits to the community. These programs are expected to be implemented effectively and address the needs of the people.

“We hope that the government programs initiated by President Prabowo can be implemented properly,” he said.

Fakhiri warned against any parties exploiting government programs for personal gain. According to him, programs intended for the public must be implemented in accordance with their established objectives.

“No one should take advantage of these programs anymore. That is what will provide sovereignty to the people at the grassroots level,” he said.

Fakhiri said Papua’s development requires the involvement of all elements of society. Regional governments, the Indonesian Military, the National Police, and the community need to work together to ensure development progresses and the benefits of independence are increasingly felt by the people.

“Papua Province and the new autonomous regions require cooperation and collaboration from all elements. The people we love are at the forefront,” Fakhiri said.

He expressed hope that the spirit of the 81st anniversary of Indonesia’s Independence would continue to foster patriotism and nationalism among the people of Papua. This spirit is expected to become a shared source of energy for developing the region and improving public welfare.

“We must continue moving forward to improve the welfare of our people and families while upholding the good name of our nation and state,” he said. ***