EXPANDING ACCESS TO REMOTE AREAS: PROGRESS ON THE TRANS PAPUA ROAD MAMBERAMO–ELELIM SEGMENT MOVES FORWARD
JAYAPURA – PT Hutama Mambelim Trans Papua (HMTP), a business entity formed through a consortium between PT Hutama Karya (Persero) (Hutama Karya) and PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur (HKI), has begun work on the Trans Papua Road project connecting Jayapura and Wamena, specifically the 50.14-kilometer Mamberamo–Elelim segment. Construction is actively underway at multiple points. The Trans Papua Road is a strategic infrastructure project designed to improve accessibility across Papua Pegunungan Province.
Kun Hartawan Adi Satria, Acting President Director of HMTP, emphasized the company’s strong commitment to supporting the Trans Papua Road as part of a broader effort to overcome geographic isolation, one of the biggest challenges faced by communities in Papua’s remote areas, while fostering a sustainable ecosystem that connects local populations.
By August 2025, HMTP had completed initial works including land clearing and right-of-way preparation, zoned traffic management, field mapping using Building Information Modeling (BIM), earthworks to form the road base, installation of drainage in priority areas, slope stabilization using geomats and concrete canvas, and compliance with the Road Performance Indicators (IKJ) for the construction phase across five zones (STA 0+000–50+140).
To ensure smooth project execution, HMTP has engaged in close coordination with key stakeholders, including the Directorate of Road Transportation Infrastructure of the Ministry of Transportation for vehicle weighing facilities (UPPKB) and traffic impact analysis (ANDALALIN). Collaboration is also ongoing with the Yalimo Regency Environmental Agency for environmental management (AMDAL/UKL-UPL), and with local security forces—including the military and police—to maintain security. Community engagement has also been carried out, including dialogues with traditional leaders and residents, accompanied by the customary “Bakar Batu” ceremony to honor local culture and build support for the project.
“The success of the Trans Papua Road depends on strong support, collaboration, and coordination from all parties. This is critical to ensure construction progresses smoothly, on schedule, and in line with the project’s targets,” said Kun Hartawan.
The project is already generating direct benefits for local communities. Out of 413 workers currently employed, 116—or 28%—are Papuan. As drainage and civil works accelerate, total labor needs are projected to grow to around 2,000. This reflects the project’s commitment to empowering local communities and promoting equitable job opportunities.
“Involving local workers not only accelerates construction but also stimulates economic activity in surrounding communities, helping to create sustainable economic access,” added Kun Hartawan.
The Mamberamo–Elelim segment, which forms part of the Jayapura–Wamena corridor, embodies the government’s commitment to equitable development in eastern Indonesia. To honor local heritage, the design of bridges along the route incorporates Papua’s traditional Honai motifs in architectural elements such as parapets, blending functionality with cultural aesthetics to create harmony between infrastructure and local identity.
The project began following the signing of a Government-Business Entity Cooperation (KPBU) agreement on July 3, 2024, and a syndicated financing agreement on December 30, 2024. The financing facility amounts to IDR 2.67 trillion, with total investment estimated at IDR 3.3 trillion.
In addition to construction activities, HMTP is carrying out social and environmental responsibility programs. To mark Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day, HMTP distributed hundreds of aid packages—including food supplies and building materials—to Generasi Emas Orphanage in Jayapura and Shalom Orphanage in Keerom Regency, supporting the construction of dormitory facilities. These initiatives highlight HMTP’s commitment to long-term community engagement and appreciation for local support.
The Trans Papua Road Jayapura–Wamena is a vital corridor linking three provinces and eight regencies in Papua Pegunungan. It is expected to significantly improve accessibility, ease logistics distribution, strengthen the regional economy, and enhance community welfare.
Looking ahead, HMTP will focus on slope stabilization at priority points, asphalt paving on prepared segments, construction of bridge abutments, and delivery of prefabricated bridge structures.
“Ongoing construction does not disrupt community mobility, and the road remains open. Our hope is to complete the Trans Papua Road on schedule, strengthening inter-regional connectivity and delivering tangible benefits for local communities,” Kun Hartawan concluded.