The West Papua Provincial Government continues to enhance its cooperation with the British Government across various sectors, including environmental conservation, research, and education. This vital United Kingdom supports West Papua province initiative aims to drive sustainable development throughout the region. Governor Dominggus Mandacan reaffirmed this commitment during a high-level meeting with British Ambassador Dominic Jermey at the Ambassador’s residence in Jakarta on Tuesday (3/2/2026). This forum served as a strategic platform to finalize preparations for the 12th International Flora Malesiana Symposium and the International Nature-Based Climate Solutions Conference in Manokwari, scheduled for February 9–14, 2026. This partnership continues the strong relationship established during the Governor’s first term in 2017, which produced the historic Manokwari Declaration.
Implementing the Manokwari Declaration
The Manokwari Declaration represents West Papua’s formal pledge to protect its vast forests and contribute to global environmental health. During the meeting, both parties discussed the progress of this declaration and addressed the current implementation challenges. Governor Dominggus explained that the provincial government integrates these principles into local policies, specifically the Regional Spatial Plan (RTRW). This plan designates 70 percent of forest areas as protected zones and 50 percent of marine areas for conservation. Through this framework, the United Kingdom supports West Papua by providing technical alignment with international conservation standards.
Furthermore, West Papua utilizes its Special Autonomy status to create a robust legal foundation. Government Regulation (PP) Number 106 and 23 Special Regional Regulations now govern customary forests. The Governor highlighted that the United Kingdom supports West Papua province through potential collaboration with relevant Indonesian ministries to streamline these processes. In response, the British Embassy confirmed ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Forestry regarding forest data registration programs in several Papuan regions.
Advancing Research and Innovation
In the field of research, the West Papua Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA) promotes a “ridge to reef” landscape development approach. This strategy ensures that national projects, such as food and energy security, remain consistent with biodiversity protection. Charlie D. Heatubun, Head of BRIDA, noted that the United Kingdom supports West Papua province through a partnership with the Royal Botanic Gardens to map essential plant areas. This data informs spatial planning and helps identify which zones require absolute protection and which are suitable for sustainable development.
“These protected areas harbor endemic plants and vital fauna that we must preserve,” Charlie stated. He emphasized that these zones also offer potential income for local communities through sustainable business models.
The Role of British Energy Giants
The meeting also addressed the significant role of British Petroleum (BP) in West Papua. Governor Dominggus acknowledged that the London-based energy company has contributed to the regional economy for many years. He specifically requested Ambassador Jermey’s support regarding the 10 percent participation interest (PI) realization, which the province expects in the first quarter of 2026. These funds will empower local communities, particularly those living near oil and gas industry sites. Additionally, the provincial government aims to increase local revenue through Regional Owned Enterprises (BUMD) and gas sales agreements with BP Tangguh.
Educational Opportunities for Papuan Youth
In the education sector, Ambassador Dominic Jermey offered prestigious scholarship programs for indigenous Papuan students to study at top universities in Britain. Starting in 2026, the British Government will accept applications from interested students. This specific United Kingdom supports West Papua province’s educational drive marks the first time that several indigenous Papuan students have applied for these programs. Dominic expressed his hope to see more West Papuan students thriving in British academic institutions.
Governor Dominggus welcomed this initiative enthusiastically. He plans to hold follow-up meetings to prepare local students for the application process, ensuring they meet the necessary requirements. “We need to prepare our youth so they can access world-class education and return to build West Papua,” the Governor concluded. This scholarship program provides a rare opportunity for the younger generation to gain global expertise that would otherwise be financially inaccessible.
