Developing the Potential of the RI–PNG Border Area in Jayapura City and Keerom Regency, Papua Province

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to inventory and measure the development potential of the RI–PNG border area in Muara Tami District (Jayapura City) and Keerom Regency, and to delineate functional zones (defense and security, economy, social-culture, environment, and connectivity infrastructure) as a scientific basis for integrated border-area planning.

Research Methodology: A quantitative descriptive design was applied to seven border villages using scalogram analysis and a Development Potential Index (DPI) computed as the ratio of actual to maximum zone scores multiplied by 100. Data combined institutional secondary sources (BPS village statistics, 2023–2025) with a structured field-scoring instrument.

Results: Across all villages and zones, DPI values remained predominantly in the Very Low to Low categories; none of the border-market zones reached the Sufficient threshold (40–59). Strong social-cultural and environmental foundations consistently coexisted with critical deficits in basic services, the local economy, and border logistics and institutions.

Conclusions: The border area is asset-rich but function-locked; isolation and weak connectivity suppress otherwise substantial local potential, requiring integrated rather than sectoral intervention.

Limitations: The analysis relies on aggregate village data and expert field scoring at a single point in time, which constrains causal inference and temporal comparison.

Contributions: The DPI offers regional planners a replicable, evidence-based tool for prioritising programmes and budgets within RDTR and RPJMD frameworks in frontier regions.