Wanam – Local residents in Merauke Regency, South Papua Province, expressed their hope for development. One example is Inosensio Sigipse.
Inosensio is a farmer who has lived in Wanam for 10 years. He expressed his support for the National Strategic Project (PSN). He hopes the development will facilitate access and improve the local economy.
“If there’s development, maybe we can build housing and roads. This will make it easier for us to sell our agricultural products,” said Papa Ino, known as Papa Ino, on Thursday (June 4, 2026).
He described the residents’ economic situation as still difficult, with agricultural products not always being absorbed by the market. He hopes the project will open up job opportunities for the community.
“If there are jobs there, those of us who are unemployed can work too,” said Ino.
Kleopas Mause, a teacher and Head of the Village Consultative Body (Bamuskam) in Wanam, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized that the community has welcomed the PSN from the beginning because they believe it brings change, although it hasn’t been fully distributed.
“Now the community is starting to get involved in the work. It’s not 100 percent yet, but there have been changes,” said Kleopas.
Kleopas also highlighted the community’s urgent need for basic infrastructure.
“People still walk to bring their produce to the company. We hope there will be a decent road to the village so that life can improve,” explained Kleopas.
Meanwhile, local hamlet leader Laurentius Gali Blagaise assessed that the development has had a positive impact, although it raised some initial concerns.
“From what I see, this change is very good. Some local people have also joined the workforce,” said Papa Lau.
He acknowledged that some residents have not yet been absorbed into the workforce, but he believes future opportunities remain open.
“There are still many young people who want to work. The hope is that this will reduce unemployment,” explained Laurentius.
According to him, development in Wanam is expected to encourage regional progress so that it doesn’t fall behind.
“We want Wanam to move forward, improving little by little,” concluded Laurentius.
