CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 2023 AND THANKSGIVING WELCOME 2024 IN PAPUA: THE SPIRIT OF UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT

Jayapura, December 15, 2023 The Papua provincial government celebrated the 2023 Christmas Service and held a festive welcome in 2024. The event, which was attended by thousands of State Civil Servants (ASN), members of the TNI/Polri, and the local community, took place at Istora Lukas Enembe, Jayapura regency. This Christmas celebration is not only a moment to rejoice and reflect, but also an event to strengthen brotherhood among all Papuans, regardless of ethnicity, race, culture, or religion. At this event, the performance of Christmas drama, praise, and vocals by local groups also enlivened the atmosphere. Not to forget, the inmates of Jayapura Class III Women's Prison also participated in the celebration, making a positive contribution to the community. The Acting Governor of Papua, in his Christmas message, invites all people on the earth of Cenderawasih to unite, work hard, and pray for the common progress and acceleration of development in the province of Papua. He stressed the importance of maintaining unity as well as supporting each other in the spirit of democracy. "Governor Rumasukun also hopes that this year's Christmas spirit will bring peace and happiness to all people in Papua province," he added. Not only attended by Papuans, this Christmas celebration was also witnessed by special guests from neighboring Papua New Guinea. Their presence in this celebration became a symbol of cross-country brotherhood and harmony in the Papua region. On this occasion, Governor Rumasukun expressed his high appreciation to all those who have actively contributed to building their beloved Papua. He reminded us that without hard work together, the common ideals for progress and peace in Papua New Guinea will not be achieved. The spirit of unity, togetherness, and the spirit of Christmas that brings peace and happiness seem so strong in the celebration of Christmas worship and thanksgiving to welcome 2024 in Papua province. This celebration is a clear proof that people in Papua are united, uphold democratic values, and are ready to jointly build a better future for this region.