Silas Natkime (Jubi)
Timika, 2/24 (Jubi) – The chairman of the Papuan Brotherhood, Silas Natkime, suggested that PT. Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) be renamed PT Freeport Papua in a proposal supported by a presidential aide, Felix Wanggai.
He said such a name change and the relocation of the company’s head office from Jakarta to Papua would make Papuans feel a sense of ownership.
“The government can develop the construction of a smelter in Papua. As inadequate electricity supply, it won’t be a major obstacle. The government should be able to make an effort to realize it,” he said in Timika on Monday (2/24).
He added, the construction of a smelter in Papua would also be able to create jobs and reduce unemployment.
Solas floated the idea to Wanggai, a member of the presidential staff of experts.
Meanwhile, secretary of the Papuan Brotherhood, Yan Rumaseuw, said the idea came from Natkime, who is one of the owners of customary land tenure.
“We supported his idea. We also believe that all Papuans will support this change. This proposal does not mean we want to fight against the central government, but it should be sticking to the Law on Special Autonomy for Papua,” he explained. (Jubi / Eveerth/ Tina)
