INTAN JAYA - Under the golden sun of Papua’s highlands, a powerful message of unity and compassion was delivered by 23 personnel from Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan during their humanitarian mission to Mamba Bawah Refugee Barracks, in Mamba Village, Sugapa District, Intan Jaya. Monday, June 9, 2025.
Led by Lettu Arh Supriono, the Task Force’s Spiritual and Mental Guidance Officer (Pabintal), the team was warmly received by around 70 community members and educators from Mamba Kotis Kindergarten. Their mission was clear: strengthen the spirit, serve with heart, and stand in solidarity with those displaced by ongoing conflict.
The day began with a heartfelt joint Christian worship, where soldiers and refugees prayed side by side. This was followed by essential medical services, the installation of water tanks to improve daily sanitation needs, and the distribution of clothing and ties to local church servants.
Across the refugee site, scenes of humanity unfolded. Children and adults alike sifted through boxes of donated clothes with joy and gratitude small but significant moments of dignity and hope. Nearby, TNI personnel and residents joined forces, hauling timber to build emergency structures—an inspiring image of mutual aid and resilience.
“We’re deeply grateful to worship together and serve our brothers and sisters here. May the peace and security of this land return soon, so everyone can go home and resume their lives with dignity, ” said Lettu Arh Supriono.
According to Mr. Dominggus Sani, Head of Mamba Village, about 50 refugees still remain in the barracks, while others particularly from Hitadipa and Jaindapa Bambu Kuning have started returning to their villages.
More Than a Mission A Mandate of Humanity
Lieutenant Colonel Inf Danang Rahmayanto, S.I.P., M.M., Commander of Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan, emphasized that this is the sixth wave of humanitarian assistance delivered by his unit, and that their presence will continue as long as the people of Papua need support.
“TNI is not only an armed force it is a bearer of hope, a symbol of humanitarian responsibility. We are committed to accompanying these communities until their safety and peace are fully restored, ” he stated.
His sentiments were echoed by Mr. Lukas Mujijau, a reporter from the Church of St. Perawan Maria, who praised the TNI’s enduring commitment:
“They always come with open hearts, bringing hope and security to people living in uncertainty.”
The event took place in a warm, safe, and heartfelt atmospher a testament to the genuine connection between the military and the local community, bound together by a shared vision of peace and compassion.
In a land often shadowed by conflict, Task Force Yonif 500/Sikatan shines as a beacon of unity, service, and faith proving that sometimes the most powerful weapon is a hand extended in humanity.
Authenticated by:
Dansatgas Media HABEMA, Lieutenant Colonel Inf Iwan Dwi Prihartono
