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elations between Yogyakarta Governor Hamengkubuwono and Papua have been fairly close, with the sultan of the country’s only ruling monarchy opening his arms to people from the easternmost province, many of whom come to the city to pursue an education.

Moreover, the sultan has repeatedly shown a commitment to protecting Papuan people when they are in trouble.

For his inclusive, tolerant views and efforts to promote respect for diversity, the sultan earned the Pluralism Award in 2014, which was conferred to him in Sentani, near Jayapura, the capital of Papua. No doubt the sultan contributes a lot to the preservation of the country’s heterogeneity and the DNA of this nation, something that sadly eludes many other regional and national leaders.

It was therefore quite surprising when Hamengkubuwono made a statement that went beyond his characteristic behavior, concerning a recent conflict between Papuan students and locals. The sultan asked any Papuan students who supported or aspired for an independent state in Papua to leave Yogyakarta, in response to tensions brewing because of a plan from a group of Papuan students to take to the streets in a show of support for the United Liberation Movement for West Papua’s (ULMWP) bid for membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) on July 15.

Security authorities and members of community groups preempted the move, besieging dozens of Papuan students at a dormitory. The incident escalated into more widespread anti-Papuan sentiment, with many boarding house owners across the city openly refusing to accept Papuan students.

The National Commission on Human Rights sent a team headed by Natalius Pigai, who is a Papuan, to resolve the conflict, by holding talks with the sultan, among other things. Of course the sultan’s statement, which was made just a day after he met with Pigai, sparked controversy.

In a city like Yogyakarta, where traditions are well maintained, words from the sultan are still considered an order. Fears have been rife that his statement would justify a move to expel Papuans from Yogyakarta, a city long known for its hospitality and tolerance. God forbid reports of a crackdown on Papuans, which would shatter the city’s bedrock of civility.

Apparently in anticipation of a widespread anti-Papuan movement, the students opted to leave Yogyakarta and return home to continue their studies, which has not only exaggerated but also exacerbated the problem.

As a leader, the sultan holds the responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of his people. Repeated tensions between Papuans and locals may, however, have sapped his patience and prompted him to draw a line separating the migrants.

Like other rulers, the sultan has unfortunately exercised power to stifle freedom of thought, although Papuans, like other Indonesian citizens, have the right to live anywhere in the country regardless of their views.

The sultan should invite Papuan representatives for talks before it is too late. His endeavors to address local tensions could serve as a model for a comprehensive solution to the Papua issue.