Thelandofpapua.com – May 1st stands as a poignant milestone in the history of Papua, marking its reunification with Indonesia. On this day in 1963, the region, then known as Irian Jaya, was officially transferred from the United Nations Temporary Executive Authority (UNTEA) to Indonesia, solidifying Indonesia’s sovereignty over Papua.
The journey to this pivotal moment traces back to Indonesia’s independence in 1945 from Dutch colonial rule. While Indonesia gained control over territories stretching from Sabang to the Moluccas, the status of Papua remained contested. The Netherlands, its former colonizer, asserted continued control over the region, delaying its transfer to Indonesia.
Promises made during the Round Table Conference in The Hague in 1949 to hand over Irian Jaya by 1950 went unfulfilled. Instead, the Netherlands sowed seeds of Papuan independence, fueling the formation of the Free Papua organization, the adoption of the Morning Star flag, and the anthem “Hai Tanahku Papua,” as recounted by Steve Mara, Chairman of the Melanesian Youth Diplomacy Forum (MYDF).
However, under President Soekarno’s leadership, Indonesia rallied against Dutch interference, declaring its stance through the Tri Komando Rakyat. This decree aimed to thwart the formation of a Dutch puppet state in Papua, asserting Indonesia’s sovereignty.
In 1960, Queen Juliana’s Speech further galvanized the Papuan independence movement, leading to the establishment of a Dutch puppet state on December 1, 1961. President Soekarno’s swift response included the formation of the Irian Barat Liberation Mandala Command, led by Soeharto, and subsequent military engagements, notably in the Arafura Sea.
The bravery of Papua’s National Heroes, including Frans Kaisepo, Silas Papare, Marten Indey, and Johanes Abraham Dimara, played a pivotal role in securing Papua’s rightful place within Indonesia.
The culmination of diplomatic efforts came with the New York Agreement in 1962, mediated by the United States. Papua was entrusted to UNTEA before its transfer to Indonesia on May 1, 1963, reaffirming Indonesia’s sovereignty under the Uti Posidetis Juris principle.
In 1969, the Act of Free Choice, or PEPERA, saw the majority of Papuans choosing to remain with Indonesia, leading to the ratification of Papua as an integral part of Indonesia through UN Resolution no. 2504.
Today, as we commemorate May 1, we stand in solidarity with the people of Papua, honoring the sacrifices made by past heroes. This occasion serves as a reminder of our shared history and a testament to Papua’s integral role within the Republic of Indonesia.
Moreover, it is an opportunity to nurture the aspirations of Papua’s youth, fostering a vision of a united and prosperous Indonesia. Under the theme “Building Indonesia from Papua,” we reaffirm the inclusion and empowerment of young Papuans within the nation’s framework.
In observance of this significant day, leaders including Chief of Police of Papua, Inspector General Pol. Mathius D. Fakhiri, and Commander of the XVII/Cenderawasih Military Region, Major General TNI Izak Pangemanan, M.Han, join us in solidarity, underscoring the importance of unity and collaboration in shaping Indonesia’s future.
