Jayapura – The Papua Provincial Government is aiming to raise its Religious Harmony Index to 90, reflecting a stronger commitment to maintaining tolerance and unity among religious communities. Currently, the index stands in the low 80s and is considered in need of further improvement through cross-sector collaboration.
The target was conveyed by Papua Governor Matius Fakhiri after leading the 80th Anniversary Ceremony of the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, held at the Papua Governor’s Office courtyard on Saturday (January 3, 2026).
“The Religious Harmony Index in Papua has so far remained in the 80s. Our hope is that this year it can continue to improve and reach the target of 90,” Fakhiri said.
He emphasized that efforts to increase the index should not be merely focused on numerical achievements or awards, but rather on ensuring that the values of tolerance are genuinely practiced and preserved within society. According to him, mutual respect and diversity have long been deeply rooted in Papuan social life.
“I have witnessed this firsthand, both during my tenure as Papua Police Chief and now as Governor. The level of diversity and tolerance in Papua is extraordinary. These are not new values, but a legacy from our ancestors that must be safeguarded,” he stated.
Governor Fakhiri also noted that the Papua Provincial Government has engaged in discussions with the Religious Harmony Forum (FKUB), the Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Papua, and the Hajj Affairs Office to design joint programs aimed at strengthening interfaith harmony.
“With the establishment of new provinces, tolerance must not weaken. On the contrary, it should be reinforced to maintain unity and peace across Papua,” he added.
He expressed hope that strong synergy between local governments, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, FKUB, and all elements of society will continue to preserve Papua as a harmonious, safe, and tolerant region amid its diversity.
