PAPUA — Papuan humanitarian activist, Dano Anes Tabuni, submitted an open letter and official report to the Chief of the Indonesian National Police (KAPOLRI) and the Chief of the Metro Jaya Regional Police (KAPOLDA Metro Jaya) regarding the controversy surrounding a film titled Pesta Babi (Pig Feast). This step was taken following rising tensions in the public sphere due to the narrative of the film, which is assessed to degrade the dignity of the Papuan people.

​The stance of a community leader, Mama Yasinta, who turned to support the film, was also reported because it triggered widespread anger.

​"This film is highly unwise, does not consider the feelings of the victims, and contains a narrative that clearly harms the political rights, status, as well as dignity of the Papuan people," Dano Anes Tabuni said, Wednesday (3/6/2026).

​He assessed that the cinema ignores the rights of Papuan citizens as historical subjects and only benefits opposition groups for the sake of one-sided narrative interests. The impact of this screening triggered great offense not only in Papua, but also among the Indonesian people who understand the historical context. The wave of protests expanded because this work is assessed to reopen old wounds and trigger divisions that threaten social integration.

​This socio-political tension is worsened by the change in stance of Mama Yasinta, who was previously known to consistently defend the customary land rights of the community. The leader is now assessed to have turned to support a new colonialism development pattern and reported parties who criticize the screening of the film. That action triggered negative responses from the community, who feel betrayed by the figure of Mama Yasinta whom they previously trusted.

​The situation is assessed to have the potential to trigger horizontal conflict and public order disturbances in various regions.

​Dano also emphasized that the content of the film is not transparent and has the potential to divide unity if not immediately anticipated. The legal steps of Mama Yasinta in opposing the critical aspirations of the community were also called a form of provocation that worsens the situation.

​For Dano, the police should act as a neutral mediator and provide legal protection for Papuan citizens who feel aggrieved. This humanitarian movement states it is not anti-artistic work, but demands accuracy, justice, and respect toward the reality on the ground. (One Papua)