Challenges for Indonesia-PNG Cross-Border Cooperation

Towards the end of Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s term in office, he and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape strengthened cross-border cooperation between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea by signing four memoranda of understanding (MoUs) on 15 July 2024.

Two of the MoUs in particular stand out: the agreements on cross-border traffic for commercial buses and coaches, and on cross-border carriage of goods by motor vehicle. They are unprecedented in the history of bilateral relations between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, and overcome a long-standing reluctance to allow public transport across the border. However, the agreements are limited to the towns of Jayapura and Vanimo, located on either side of the border in the northern part of New Guinea.

These MoUs will undoubtedly pave the way for greater cooperation between the two countries and provide significant benefits to the residents of Jayapura and Vanimo, who now have access to public transportation to cross the border.

From a regional perspective, these agreements reflect Indonesian foreign policy under the Jokowi administration, which sought to strengthen ties with the Pacific community, with PNG serving as a notable example. From a local perspective, this breakthrough marks an important step in the Jayapura-Vanimo sister city partnership, which has been renewed for a second term since 2016.

While this breakthrough represents progress, several challenges remain. First, road conditions are challenging, particularly on the Papua New Guinea side, between the Wutung border post and the town of Vanimo, a journey that takes about 1.5 hours by taxi. Several bridges along this route are susceptible to river water flowing over the top — worse during the rainy season — which can make driving dangerous for those without the special skills to navigate safely.

Another important consideration is transnational crime. Local news reports often report that smugglers are transporting marijuana from Vanimo to Jayapura via unofficial land routes, boats, or even through the official border posts. While we often hear of people being caught, there is concern about people slipping through. With these MoUs increasing interaction between the two communities and making cross-border public transport more frequent, security measures need to be strengthened – both before boarding public transport and at the border – to effectively deter smugglers.

The new cross-border public transport agreement will significantly increase the flow of people. A greater number of PNG people will travel to Indonesia via Jayapura for a variety of reasons, including visiting family and sightseeing — although shopping is likely to be the main draw. The Skouw Market on the border is already a popular destination and this new cross-border transport option is expected to attract even more PNG visitors to Jayapura.

In order to ensure mutual benefits for both countries, this new transport arrangement should embrace the concept of reciprocity. A much larger traditional market near the Wutung border post would attract more people from the Indonesian side. In addition, there is an opportunity to develop more tourist attractions in Vanimo City to appeal to more Papuans and Indonesians, by offering more than just the purchase of items such as sausages, cornets or Twisties.

Travel documentation is another crucial consideration, as crossing the Indonesia-PNG border requires a type of border crossing pass — commonly known as the red and yellow cards — for those living along the border, or a passport for those not classified as border residents. The border crossing pass is typically used for traditional purposes and within specific distances. However, with the new MoUs allowing commercial buses and motor vehicles to enter Jayapura or Vanimo, it is essential to establish clear immigration arrangements to effectively manage the movement of people and goods. In addition, reducing visa fees from both countries would help facilitate this new cross-border public transport arrangement.

Although these two MoUs on cross-border public transport have yet to be implemented, there is no doubt that they represent a major breakthrough in Indonesia-PNG relations. What needs to happen now is the effective implementation of these agreements, taking into account the more critical issues and all other considerations, to ensure tangible benefits for both Jayapura and Vanimo, and for Indonesia and PNG in general.