RRI.CO.ID, Papua — The Joint Regional Defense Command III (Kogabwilhan) along with the Swasembada Operations Command and the 753/AVT infantry battalion conducted social activities in the form of a community kitchen and free health services for the people of Tinibil Village, Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Papua, on Tuesday, 17 February 2026.

In an official statement recrived by RRI VOI on Saturday, 21 February 2026, Kogabwilhan stated that Tinibil Village, a small village in Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Papua, has become a witness in which the state, through the TNI, is always close to its people. Pegunungan Bintang Regency is well known for its geographical challenges such as mountainous areas with limited transportation access.

Kogabwilhan mentioned that under these conditions, integrated social services have become a strategic effort to bridge the basic needs of the community while fostering social relations between officials and residents.

The Commander of Kogabwilhan III, Lieutenant General TNI Bambang Trisnohadi, underscored that the activity is part of the implementation of Non-War Military Operations (OMSP) as mandated in Law Number 34 of 2004 concerning the Indonesian Military, specifically in assisting local governments and supporting efforts to improve community welfare.

“The presence of the TNI in Papua is not only in the context of maintaining security stability, but also ensuring that the community feels the direct benefits of the state's presence,” the Commander stated.

The activity is also in line with the national policy of accelerating development and welfare in Papua as outlined in Presidential Instruction No. 9 of 2020 and the strengthening of Special Autonomy for Papua through Law No. 2 of 2021.

Meanwhile, the Commander of the Swasembada Operation Command, Major General Novi Rubadi Sugito, affirmed that a humanistic approach will continue to be prioritized in every task carried out in Papua.

According to him, TNI personnel must provide solution to the people's needs. In the context of Papua, which is often marred by negative narratives and provocations from separatist groups, such as the Free Papua Movement, a humanistic approach is a stronger answer than mere rhetoric.

“Synergy between defense elements, local government, and the community is key to creating a safe, conducive, and productive situation for development,” he stated.

Novi also conveyed that the enthusiasm of the community was evident from the active participation of residents in cooking activities and the high number of residents who used the health services.

The Commander said the people's kitchen describes powerful message that Indonesian unity is not built on fear, but on mutual trust.

Through the activity, the TNI reaffirmed its commitment to continuously working and serving the people of Papua as an integral part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia. (AF)