MINISTRY OF RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS—PAPUA REGIONAL OFFICE HEAD AWARDS CERTIFICATE TO ACTING REGENT OF TOLIKARA

Jayapura, August 27, 2024—The Head of the Regional Office (Kakanwil) of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) of Papua Province, Reverend Klemens Taran, S.Ag., awarded a certificate of appreciation to the Acting (Pj.) Regent of Tolikara, Marthen Kogoya, S.H., M.A.P., in recognition of his active role in maintaining religious harmony in the Papua Highlands Province, particularly in Tolikara Regency. The award ceremony took place in the VIP Meeting Room of the Papua Provincial Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs on Tuesday (27/08/2024).

This event was part of an initiative by the Organizational Governance (Ortala) and Religious Harmony (KUB) Teams of the Papua Provincial Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs. In addition to the Kakanwil and the Acting Regent of Tolikara, the event was also attended by all administrative officials of the Papua Provincial Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the Head of the Tolikara Regency Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Mikhel Dandirwalu, S.Th., M.M., the Head of the Ortala and KUB Teams of the Papua Provincial Office, Fransina Dimara, M.Pd.K., and their respective teams.

In his speech, the Kakanwil of Papua Province expressed deep gratitude for the dedication of the Acting Regent of Tolikara in creating a peaceful and harmonious environment amidst the diverse religious communities in the region. "The need for a harmonious and peaceful environment is a fundamental necessity. And today, the Acting Regent is nominated as one of the key figures in the Papua Highlands Province who actively contributes to creating such an atmosphere," said the Kakanwil.

The Kakanwil further emphasized the crucial role of regional leaders in maintaining and strengthening the bonds of inter-religious harmony. "The role of the Acting Regent in fostering harmony should serve as a model for all leaders in Papua and across Indonesia," he added.

In response to the award, Acting Regent Marthen Kogoya expressed his gratitude and thanks to the Kakanwil of Papua Province and all those who have provided trust and support. "Maintaining religious harmony has always been our responsibility as regional leaders. Wherever we are appointed, this task must be carried out with full responsibility. We ensure that inter-religious harmony in Tolikara Regency is well-maintained and functioning effectively," affirmed Marthen Kogoya.

This recognition is expected to inspire all regional officials and community leaders in Papua to continue striving for peace and harmony in the midst of a diverse society. Moreover, the active role of all parties in maintaining social harmony is expected to be further enhanced for the common good.

The certificate presentation concluded with a group photo session and a social gathering, where all participants exchanged views and experiences on the importance of maintaining harmony and peace in Papua, particularly in regions rich in cultural and religious diversity such as Tolikara Regency.