Focus on Accelerated Development: Papua Special Autonomy Funds Increase

The allocation of special autonomy (otsus) funds in Papua and West Papua provinces has been extended until 2041. This decision came into effect after President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) officially signed Law Number 2 of 2021 last July. These Papua otsus funds are sourced from 2.25 percent of the General Allocation Fund (DAU).

For 2022, President Jokowi has allocated Rp 8.5 trillion as otsus funds for both provinces in the State Budget (RAPBN). This budget is larger than in previous years. The 2022 APBD details two components of Papua otsus fund usage: a 1 percent *block grant* and a 1.25 percent *specific grant*.

The *block grant* will focus on three areas: public development and services; improving the welfare of indigenous Papuans (OAP) and strengthening customary institutions; and other needs based on regional priorities. The *specific grant* will be used for education, health, and economic empowerment.

In addition to otsus funds, the government is also providing an Additional Infrastructure Fund (DTI) for the two provinces in Tanah Papua. For 2022, this amounts to Rp 4.37 trillion. This budget will be allocated for the development of transportation infrastructure, clean water, electricity, telecommunications, and environmental sanitation.