Universitas Gadjah Mada and Intan Jaya regency in Papua have agreed to establish cooperation for accelerating the developments of the area. The agreement of cooperation in education, research, and community service was signed by Rector of UGM, Prof. Ir. Panut Mulyono, M.Eng., D.Eng., and Regent of Intan Jaya, Natalis Tabuni, S.Si., M.Si, in UGM Conference Room on Wednesday (2/5).
Natalis Tabuni said as a relatively young regency, Intan Jaya was making efforts for development in all areas. But due to their limitations, they expected from the cooperation to be able to gain knowledge and assistance to accelerate such developments.
"This is a follow-up to the wishes of President Joko Widodo whilst visiting Nabire recently that pledged to build trans-Papua roads. This road is very important for Intan Jaya in order not to get isolated from the rest,” he said.
Natalis Tabuni said the isolation of the area had made prices of goods very high. The only way to get there is by air. Concerning this condition, the Regent expected to have support in terms of comprehensive study on road and bridge construction that will later be submitted to the President for his approval.
"With that condition, after a recent presentation in front of the President, it was decided to build roads for Intan Jaya, linking it with nearest area, Paniae. For this, aim we came to UGM to have that comprehensive study,” he said.
Rector of UGM, Prof. Ir. Panut Mulyono, M.Eng., D.Eng., hoped the cooperation with Intan Jaya could benefit greatly while UGM can increase its role and contribution to the state through these regions.
"Particularly on Papua, such as the work done by Papua Working Task, because there are many jobs to be done by Papuan people. We will gladly give our best to Intan Jaya, which we hope to accelerate the development there,” the Rector said.
He noted the fact that road infrastructure was the heart of economic development. Good roads will help the distribution of goods and accelerate economic growth.
“Good roads will enable the people to get their need of goods easier. Therefore, it’s appropriate that road and electricity construction become the concerns of the government,” he said.