Profile of Southwest Papua Province at Indonesia
10 January, 2023Share:
Profile of Southwest Papua Province at Indonesia
The Indonesian government officially established the Southwest Papua Province, West Papua, on November 11, 2022. This new region is a division of the larger West Papua province. It represents the sixth province formed within Indonesia’s Papuan territory. The provincial government is centered in Sorong City, a key economic hub. This new province is a significant development for the region.
See also: Six West Papua Provincial Capital Cities Profile
The Southwest Papua Province covers a total area of 38,820.90 square kilometers. Its territory includes Sorong City and five important regencies. These are Sorong, South Sorong, Maybrat, and Tambrauw. It also governs the world-renowned Raja Ampat Regency. The province has clear geographical boundaries. To the north, it faces the Philippines, Palau, and the Pacific Ocean. Its eastern border meets Manokwari and Teluk Bintuni Regencies. Its western edge borders Maluku and North Maluku Provinces.
The Path to Establishment Southwest Papua Province
The Southwest Papua Province holds vast potential in natural resources. Northern and eastern Sorong have promising oil and gas reserves. The Tambrauw and southern Maybrat regions contain valuable minerals. These include gold, nickel, iron sand, and copper. Southern Sorong also possesses coal and iron sand deposits. Beyond mining, the province boasts incredible tourism potential. For instance, Raja Ampat is famous globally for its stunning underwater tourism.
See Also: Guide to the Costs for Traveling in Raja Ampat
Advocates had proposed the formation of this province for many years. The idea first emerged before Papua split into two provinces. Supporters pushed the proposal before the government reactivated West Papua Province. The movement gained significant momentum starting in 2007. Supporters made their first declaration in Sorong City on January 5. Then, they held a second declaration in Jayapura on January 12.
The bill eventually became a priority for the Indonesian Parliament. However, lawmakers did not include it in the 2012-2014 new region discussions. Finally, the legal basis for the Southwest Papua Province was ratified in 2022. The Indonesian Parliament passed the formation bill into law. This occurred during its 10th Plenary Meeting for the 2022-2023 session.
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