Dewi Nurita, Jakarta – House of Representatives' (DPR) Commission I chairman Abdul Kharis supports the government's decision to limit foreign arrivals to Papua and West Papua. The policy came out after four Australians allegedly took part in the demonstrations demanding independence for Papua.
"I support all steps taken by the government," Kharis said at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta, Tuesday, September 3.
DPR Commission I member Andreas Hugo Pareira also supports the policy, saying it is necessary to prevent foreign interference in Papua. "Their presence would raise and internationalize the issue," Andreas said.
Four Australians were deported after participating in the demonstrations demanding Papuan independence. They joined the rally in front of the Sorong Mayor office on August 27, 2019.
After the incident, the government ensured that they will restrict foreign entry to Papua and West Papua.
"During a meeting with Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi yesterday, we decided that Papua and West Papua will no longer be as widely open for foreigners," Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Wiranto said in Jakarta on Monday, September 2.
Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1243453/dpr-supports-decision-to-restrict-foreign-access-to-papua