Nabire – The presence of several senior Papuan journalists strengthens the implementation of the inaugural Media Festival (Fesmed) for the Greater Papua Region, which will be held in Nabire City, Central Papua Province, in 2026.
The support of these press figures is a boost for hundreds of journalists from six provinces in Papua who will participate in this event.
This was conveyed by the Chairperson of the Fesmed Committee for the Greater Papua Region, Abeth Abraham You, during a press conference at the Fesmed Committee Secretariat in Nabire, Monday evening (January 12, 2026).
According to Abeth, this Media Festival is the first of its kind to be held in Central Papua and represents a historic moment for the Papuan press.
In addition to serving as a gathering place for journalists from across the region, the festival also provides a space for sharing experiences across generations.
“The presence of senior journalists is a tangible form of support. They are here to encourage and motivate young Papuan journalists to maintain professionalism, integrity, and press solidarity,” said Abeth.
He explained that hundreds of Media Festival participants come from six provinces in Papua, including both Indigenous Papuan (OAP) and non-OAP journalists.
Participants will participate in various activities, ranging from journalistic discussions and capacity building to reflections on the role of media in Papuan development.
Abeth stated that the presence of senior journalists demonstrates their commitment to the development of journalism in Papua.
Several senior journalists who have already attended Nabire include Woles Krenak, an Indigenous Papuan journalist who worked at the State Palace in Jakarta in the 1980s.
“At that time, it was very difficult for Papuans to carry out journalistic work at the national level. Mr. Woles Krenak’s presence serves as a role model and inspiration for young Papuan journalists,” he said.
Also in attendance was Dominggus Mampioper, a senior journalist who has been involved in journalism since the 1980s and continues to actively write about strategic Papuan issues, such as the environment, education, and health, in print and online media.
Abeth added that the presence of other senior journalists, including Victor Mambor, confirmed that the Papua Raya Media Festival has received broad support from press figures across generations.
“This is proof that the commitment of senior journalists is very real. They are encouraging this festival to run smoothly and have a positive impact on the Papuan press,” he said.
He hopes this inaugural Media Festival will strengthen the spirit of togetherness, encourage regeneration, and improve the quality of Papuan journalism, which is professional, ethical, and supports the public interest.
