PAPUA - On Monday, July 4, 2025, a unique and heartwarming sight unfolded in Mamere Village, Intan Jaya, Central Papua. Amid the towering mountains and cool air, the yard of the Kemah Injil Church (Kingmi), the spiritual home of Mamere residents, became the scene of true community spirit and cooperation. However, it wasn’t a military operation; it was a peaceful collaboration between the TNI (Indonesian National Army) and the local community, working hand in hand to clean and beautify the house of worship.
Under the leadership of Serda Mudahri, soldiers from Task Force Yonif 732/Banau, part of Koops TNI Habema, rolled up their sleeves, donning their proud uniforms, and joined the community members. With simple tools – hoes, brooms, and garbage bags – they cleared weeds, swept every corner of the yard, and arranged ornamental plants. Children, elders, and everyone in between eagerly pitched in, smiling and chatting as they worked together, making the church yard shine once more.
For Pastor Damiri Ailap of the Kemah Injil Church, the moment was a powerful symbol of unity. "This cooperation brings us closer. Our church is clean, and the bond between the community and TNI has grown stronger, " said the pastor, his voice choked with emotion, as tears welled up in his eyes. It was clear that this simple act of kindness meant more than just physical cleanliness; it was a powerful gesture of goodwill.
Lettu Inf Mahmud Tanamal, leader of Danpos Jenggereng, elaborated on the deeper meaning of this community service. "We want to show that TNI is not just here for security, but we are also part of this community. Amid challenges and differences, the spirit of cooperation is a bridge for a peaceful and prosperous Papua, " he said. "We are brothers, always ready to help whenever needed."
The story from Mamere reached the ears of Major General Lucky Avianto, Commander of the Habema Operations Command (Pangkoops), who expressed his deep admiration for the initiative. "What the soldiers of Satgas Yonif 732/Banau did together with the Mamere community is a true reflection of the values of togetherness and tolerance that we must continue to cultivate in Papua, " said Major General Avianto.
He continued, "The TNI is here not just to ensure security, but to embrace, serve, and build. This effort to clean a house of worship is a powerful symbol of our commitment to creating peace through real actions, ones that unite, not divide. This small act leaves a big impact, strengthening the bond between TNI and the people of Papua."
The story from Mamere serves as a reminder that true strength doesn’t only lie in arms; it lies in unity, compassion, and shared purpose. By coming together to clean a churchyard, the TNI and the community of Mamere have done more than simply remove dirt – they’ve wiped away barriers, built trust, and planted hope for a brighter, more peaceful future in Papua.
Authentication:
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono