Markus Makur, Timika, Papua – A Papuan figure from native Amungme tribe, Silas Natkime, has secured support from influential Papua People's Assembly (MRP) to lead US-based gold mining firm PT Freeport Indonesia.

Silas, currently Freeport senior manager for Papuan affairs, will take over from the gold miner's current president director Armando Mahler, a local figure claims.

Amungme figure and young scholar Hans Magal told a media conference in Timika on Saturday the historic change of guard would take place soon.

"On behalf of Papuan people I thank the government of Indonesia for entrusting a Papuan native to lead Freeport. I also thank Freeport management that has groomed a native to take the company's top post," Magal said.

The MRP has issued its endorsement of Silas' promotion as Freeport Indonesia president director in a letter dated April 20. The Regional Representatives Council (DPD) also support his nomination through its letter dated May 18.

Magal said the appointment of Silas, a DPD member, would end 46 years of wait for native Papuans to play a pivotal role in the operation of their own gold mine, which has been controlled by the US company subsidiary since 1967.

"We will carve out a history as a son of Grassberg Mountain will be entrusted to lead PT Freeport Indonesia," Magal said