Thelandofpapua.com— The Department of Public Housing and Settlements in Merauke Regency has announced its housing assistance program for 2025, funded by Special Autonomy Funds (Dana Otsus) and General Allocation Funds (DAU). The initiative aims to improve living conditions for the local community, with a particular focus on indigenous Papuans.

According to Elisabeth Dinaulik, Head of the Housing Division at the Department of Public Housing and Settlements, DAU funds will be utilized for home quality improvement or rehabilitation projects. These projects will provide building materials for 14 houses in the Merauke, Semangga, and Tanah Miring areas. Meanwhile, the Dana Otsus budget will be allocated to construct 25 new housing units specifically for indigenous Papuans.

“We prioritize residents who have submitted proposals for assistance. We conduct surveys, and if the quota allows, we will continue to evaluate additional proposals. However, if a proposal does not meet the criteria, we will seek other eligible applicants,” explained Dinaulik during a press briefing on Monday, January 13, 2025.

The Dana Otsus funding will also support housing projects across several districts. These include the construction of five units each in Waan Kampung Konorau, Ulilin Kampung Kindike, Sota Kampung Erambu, Kampung Torai, Kampung Eswambi, Selau, Waan, Turiram, Obaat, and Wanam. Additionally, three units will be built in Sumber Mulya, Kaliki, and Jaya Makmur.

Dinaulik expressed optimism about the program’s success. “We hope everything is built as planned and runs smoothly,” she said.

The department also emphasized the importance of maintaining houses built in 2024 and previous years. “We hope the community continues to care for and make the best use of these homes,” she added.

This initiative reflects Merauke Regency’s ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of its residents, particularly indigenous Papuans, by addressing housing needs and fostering sustainable development.