Thelandofpapua.com – The journey of several Papuan-born individuals to becoming three-star generals in Indonesia’s military and police forces is a testament to their exceptional dedication and service to the nation. These individuals, hailing from the easternmost region of Indonesia, have earned a respected place in the country’s history, holding strategic roles in maintaining the integrity and security of the nation.

Below is a list of distinguished Papuan figures who have achieved the rank of three-star general in both the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and the National Police (Polri):

1. Vice Admiral (Ret.) Freddy Numberi

Freddy Numberi stands out as the first Papuan-born individual to achieve the rank of a three-star general. His military career began in 1968 when he joined the Military Academy (Akabri). He furthered his education at the Naval Academy (AAL) in Surabaya in 1969. Throughout his career, Freddy held several important positions, including Commander of KRI Sembilan and head of the Project Task Force for the procurement of Parchim, Frosch, and Kondor ships.

Beyond his military career, Freddy Numberi also made a significant impact in the political arena, serving as the Governor of Papua from 1998 to 2002. Under the administration of President Abdurrahman Wahid, Freddy was appointed Minister of Administrative Reform (1999-2000). Later, during President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono’s era, he was entrusted with two key positions: Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (2004-2009) and Minister of Transportation (2009-).

2. Lieutenant General (Ret.) Ali Hamdan Bogra

Ali Hamdan Bogra, a devout Muslim, has left an indelible mark in the military. A graduate of the 1987 Military Academy class, he served alongside former TNI Commander General Andika Perkasa. Born in Serui on January 6, 1963, Ali held several important roles, including as Kapendam XVII/Cendrawasih (2011-2012) and Deputy Commander of the TNI Staff and Command School (2019-2020).

Ali Hamdan’s dedication earned him a promotion to three-star general, where he took over as Chief of Staff of the Army’s Advisory Corps, replacing Lieutenant General Wisnoe Prasetija Boedi. He also served as Commander of Kodam XVIII/Kasuari in Manokwari, West Papua, a strategic position that further solidified his legacy.

3. Lieutenant General (Ret.) Joppye Onesimus Wayangkau

Joppye Onesimus Wayangkau, born on July 17, 1962, in Serui, is another distinguished military figure from Papua. After graduating from the Military Academy in 1986, Joppye served in various important roles, including Inspector General of Kodam XVII/Cenderawasih and Commander of Kodam XVIII/Kasuari (2016-2020). His dedication to duty culminated in his promotion to three-star general, after which he was appointed Commander of the Army Territorial Center (Danpusterad) in 2020.

4. (Late) Lieutenant General (Ret.) Herman Asaribab

The late Lieutenant General Herman Asaribab, a 1988 graduate of the Military Academy, was a revered figure in the Indonesian Army. Born in Jayapura, Papua, he rose through the ranks to become Deputy Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army, his last position before his passing in December 2020. Throughout his career, Herman contributed significantly to maintaining security in Indonesia, particularly in his homeland of Papua.

5. Police Commissioner General (Ret.) Paulus Waterpauw

Paulus Waterpauw is a retired three-star general of the Indonesian National Police who hails from Teluk Wondama in West Papua. A 1987 graduate of the Police Academy (Akpol), Paulus held several key positions throughout his career, including Chief of the National Police’s Intelligence and Security Agency (Kabaintelkam). He also served as Regional Police Chief of both Papua and West Papua at different points in his career.

Paulus Waterpauw’s contributions extended beyond law enforcement, as he served as Deputy for Border Area Potential Management at the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) and was appointed Acting Governor of West Papua in 2022.

6. Police Commissioner General Mathius D. Fakhiri

Mathius D. Fakhiri, the current Chief of Papua Police, recently received an extraordinary promotion, becoming a three-star general. As an experienced officer from the Mobile Brigade Corps (Brimob), Mathius has played a crucial role in various operations in Papua, such as the Nemangkawi Operation and the Cartenz Peace Operation. His promotion marks him as the second Papuan to achieve the rank of three-star general in the National Police, following in the footsteps of Paulus Waterpauw.

A Legacy of Service and Dedication

These six distinguished figures represent the pride of Papua and serve as a source of inspiration for future generations. Their careers reflect a deep commitment to national service, demonstrating that with determination and perseverance, individuals from all regions of Indonesia can rise to the highest levels of leadership in the military and police forces. Their contributions continue to resonate, reinforcing the importance of unity and dedication in safeguarding the sovereignty and integrity of Indonesia.