If so, then such values would certainly complement the broad evolving Indonesian national character, still “a work in progress” despite the passage of 76 years since the Indonesian proclamation of independence.

In revealing a profile of Papuan values, one must first consider what questions Papuans might regard as essential to be asked and answered. This is sound not only in terms of the complex field of human diversity but significantly it is also Indonesian government policy—from the very top.

In December 2015, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo made these aspirations and intentions very clear when he said, “I want to listen to the people’s voices and I’m willing to open dialogue for a better Papua. The people of Papua don’t only need health care, education, and the construction of bridges and roads; they also need to be listened to.”

President Jokowi’s position was an acknowledgement that neither political remedies, such as the power sharing features of the Papuan People’s Assembly, nor infrastructure development, have substantially advanced the idea of national motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (unity in diversity) as it relates to Papuan inclusion in the “big Indonesian family”.

There has been considerable research on the matrix of value systems across the international border in neighboring Papua New Guinea (PNG). This especially includes the Wantok (Tok Pisin for “one talk”) system, which characterizes not only common social, cultural, and personal ideals and principles but also illustrates the practical advantages of shared language and ethnicity, often confined by district or provincial boundaries or even geographic isolation.

This is further characterized by what might be considered universal PNG values such as “reciprocity” (exchange for mutual benefit) and “keeping time with the sun” (or an orientation toward the natural cycles of day and night rather than imposed time frames such as “nine to five”).

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