SEAToday.com, Sentani – The Indonesian Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has officially recognized the communal lands of indigenous Papuans, particularly in Jayapura Regency, by issuing certificates. This step serves as evidence of the state's active role in addressing customary land issues, which often hinder Papua's development progress.

The initiative began in October 2023 when Minister Hadi Tjahjanto visited Sawoi Village in Kemtuk Gresi District, Jayapura Regency. During his visit, he engaged directly with the local indigenous community to discuss the importance of land certification. He also presented certificates to five indigenous Papuans in Kuipons Village, Nimboran District, Jayapura Regency.

As part of this process, 6,997,700 square meters (or 699.77 hectares) of communal land belonging to the Sawoi indigenous community was certified. This state acknowledgment of indigenous land rights continued under Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), who, in September 2024, formally handed over certificates to Acting Jayapura Regent Semuel Siriwa in Jakarta.

In addition to the central government's efforts through the ATR/BPN Ministry, local governments have taken proactive measures to expedite the certification of customary lands. The Jayapura Regency Government has established an Indigenous Peoples Task Force (GTMA), comprising leaders from regional apparatus organizations (OPD). This task force collaborates on resolving customary land disputes, supporting the state’s recognition of communal land for the Sawoi indigenous people through the issuance of certificates or land management rights (HPL).

Prior to certification, disputes among indigenous clans often led to overlapping claims, which impeded development. These conflicts adversely affected local communities, such as restricted access to healthcare, disruptions to students’ education, and halted government services due to road blockades.

By addressing these land disputes through certification, the government provides not only legal clarity but also reassurance to the community. This initiative symbolizes the state's commitment to addressing public needs, fostering a sense of belonging among indigenous communities as part of the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI).