Jakarta (ANTARA) – Troops from the Habema Operations Command of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (Koops TNI Habema) delivered two tons of humanitarian aid to residents affected by drought in three subdistricts of Puncak District, Central Papua.
“The successful distribution of this aid was made possible through the cooperation and dedication of all personnel in the field, as well as support from the local government,” Koops TNI Habema Territorial Task Force Commander Brigadier General Stefie Jantje Nuhujanan said in a press statement received on Sunday.
The aid was delivered on Saturday to the districts of Agandugume, Oneri, and Lambewi. Troops carried out the mission despite unpredictable mountain weather, low temperatures, and steep terrain that could only be traversed on foot.
Nuhujanan said the operation involved more than just delivering supplies, as personnel had to demonstrate courage and physical endurance given limited access to the affected areas.
He explained that the lack of suitable aircraft landing sites meant the supplies had to be unloaded at locations dozens of kilometers away from several destination villages.
From there, soldiers carried the aid across steep slopes, valleys, rivers, and slippery mountain trails under extreme weather conditions.
According to him, weather conditions in the region can change rapidly, with thick fog, heavy rain, low temperatures, and the risk of landslides posing significant challenges throughout the journey.
Despite the difficult conditions, all personnel remained committed to ensuring humanitarian assistance reached residents who have endured months of drought and food shortages.
“Extreme terrain, unpredictable weather, and limited access have never been reasons for us to stop. We are committed to ensuring humanitarian assistance reaches those in need,” he remarked.
The assistance consisted of staple food packages containing rice, instant noodles, sugar, milk for infants and children, and medicines. All supplies were transported by air, the fastest means of reaching the isolated mountainous region.
Nuhujanan said the successful mission demonstrated the state’s presence in assisting communities affected by drought and food shortages.
“The TNI’s presence is not only about maintaining security, but also about becoming part of the solution to the hardships faced by the people of Papua,” he added.
Lambewi Subdistrict Head Lanius Wenda expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by Koops TNI Habema to residents of Agandugume, Oneri, and Lambewi.
He said communities in the three subdistricts have been suffering from drought and food shortages since June 2026 due to extreme weather, which has reduced crop yields and depleted food supplies.
“On behalf of the people of Agandugume, Oneri, and Lambewi subdistricts, we extend our deepest gratitude to the TNI, especially Koops TNI Habema. This assistance brings new hope to our communities,” he said.
Wenda added that the assistance is invaluable, especially for infants, children, and affected families, expressing hope that the support will continue.
Meanwhile, Koops TNI Habema Information Head Lieutenant Colonel M. Wirya Arthadiguna said the successful delivery of two tons of logistics reflected the commitment of TNI personnel to continue assisting communities despite the region’s challenging natural conditions.
He expressed hope that the synergy among the TNI, local governments, and local communities in addressing the impacts of drought and food shortages in Papua’s mountainous areas would continue, enabling residents’ basic needs to be met and conditions to recover as soon as possible.
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Translator: Bayu Prasetyo
Editor: Arie Novarina
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