Indonesian Navy delivers rupiah to Papua’s remote islands

2 hours ago

Jayapura (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Navy is supporting the distribution of rupiah banknotes to remote and outer islands in Papua through the 2026 Sovereign Rupiah Expedition, reinforcing state presence in frontier regions.

Commander of Naval Regional Command X Jayapura Major General (Marine Corps) Sugianto said on Wednesday that the Indonesian Navy and Bank Indonesia shared responsibility for safeguarding national sovereignty, including ensuring communities in archipelagic areas have access to fit-for-circulation rupiah banknotes.

“Synergy between the Indonesian Navy and Bank Indonesia is a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in safeguarding sovereignty while supporting equitable development in Indonesia’s outermost regions,” Sugianto said in Jayapura.

He said the rupiah serves not only as a means of transaction but also as a symbol of national identity and a manifestation of the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.

According to Sugianto, the Sovereign Rupiah Expedition is intended to ensure that the national currency reaches all regions, including Papua’s remote islands.

He said KRI Mata Bongsang-873 departed on Tuesday to carry out the 2026 expedition to five frontier, outermost, and remote areas in Papua. The voyage covers Jayapura, Pai Island, Owi Island, Numfoor Island, Bepondi Island, Yapen Island, and Biak, spanning a total distance of approximately 625 nautical miles.

Sugianto said all personnel assigned to the mission had been instructed to carry out their duties responsibly while prioritizing the safety of personnel and equipment and adhering to operational procedures throughout the voyage. In addition to ensuring maritime security, Navy personnel have also been tasked with providing support to Bank Indonesia teams and local communities to ensure the smooth distribution of fit-for-circulation banknotes.

“We hope collaboration between the Indonesian Navy and Bank Indonesia through the Sovereign Rupiah Expedition will strengthen the state’s presence in frontier, outermost, and remote regions while fostering greater public appreciation for the rupiah as a symbol of national sovereignty,” Sugianto said.