Jayapura, Indonesia – A traditional leader in the Tabi region of Jayapura Regency, Papua, has urged students to prioritize their education and help maintain peace and public order in their communities.
The call was made amid discussions surrounding student demonstrations and opposition to the government’s Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program. Traditional leaders said students should use their time to study, develop their skills and prepare themselves to contribute to Papua’s future.
Yacob Fiobetauw, Ondofolo of Puay Village, called on students from elementary, junior high, senior high and vocational schools to help maintain peace in the Tabi region, particularly in Jayapura Regency.
“We encourage all students to continue maintaining peace and tranquility in Tabi, particularly in Jayapura Regency. Do not be easily influenced by calls that could disrupt security and the education process,” he said.
Yacob emphasized that education plays an important role in preparing Papua’s younger generation for the future. Students are therefore encouraged to concentrate on their studies and avoid activities that could harm themselves or interfere with their education.
Traditional leaders also expressed support for the MBG program, saying it has a positive objective of helping meet children’s nutritional needs. They called on the public to give the program an opportunity to operate and said any shortcomings should be communicated through appropriate channels so they can be evaluated and addressed.
“We support programs that provide benefits to children. If there are shortcomings in their implementation, let us communicate them and improve them together. Children should not be involved in issues that could instead disrupt their education,” he said.
The traditional leaders also encouraged parents, schools and other members of the community to help students understand the importance of verifying information and not being easily influenced by unverified reports.
They further called on the community to help maintain a peaceful and orderly environment so that students can continue their education safely and comfortably while preparing themselves to become a capable future generation of Papua.
