JAYAPURA – Papua Governor Matius D. Fakhiri has urged indigenous communities in Senggi District, Keerom Regency, to independently manage their land and rice fields developed through the People’s Rice Field Development Program.

Fakhiri said indigenous communities should play the leading role in developing the agricultural sector in the area. He stressed that land owned by indigenous communities should not be leased out or handed over to other parties for management.

Fakhiri delivered the message while overseeing the first rice planting on land developed under the People’s Rice Field Development Program in Senggi on Monday (September 7, 2026).

“The land remains the property of the indigenous communities. These rice fields also belong to the indigenous communities and the local people. If there are farmer groups, they are welcome to manage the fields,” Fakhiri said.

He explained that the government’s role is limited to helping clear and develop agricultural land in support of the food self-sufficiency program. Ownership of the land remains with the indigenous communities.

Fakhiri also urged tribal leaders and customary landowners to clearly establish their land boundaries and markers to prevent future disputes.

He encouraged Papuans not only to own agricultural land but also to actively cultivate it and benefit economically from its agricultural production.

Meanwhile, migrants or transmigrant communities with farming experience are expected to help transfer agricultural knowledge and skills to local Papuan communities.

“We must not allow local communities to own the land while others manage it and enjoy the benefits,” he said.

Fakhiri said the development of rice fields in Senggi would create new economic opportunities while strengthening food security in Papua. ***