Tragic Loss in Papua: Educator’s Life Cut Short

The community of East Flores is in mourning following the tragic death of Rosalina Barek sogen, a dedicated teacher who was killed in Yahukimo, Papua Mountains. Sogen, originally from Lewotala Village, Lewolema District, had been serving as an educator in the remote region as 2022. Her life was brutally taken by suspected members of the Free Papua Association (OPM) on Friday, March 21, 2025.

Official funeral Arrangements Underway

Plans are underway to honor Sogen with an official funeral in her hometown. Her body is expected to arrive on wednesday, March 26, or thursday, March 27, 2025, delivered by officials from the Provincial Government of Papua Mountains. Felix Suban Hoda, Head of the East flores Regency Youth and Sports Education Office (PKO), will lead the funeral ceremony, signifying the government’s respect and recognition of Sogen’s service.

The burial will be carried out by a government protocol led by the PKO Office.

Felix Suban Hoda, Head of the East Flores Regency Youth and Sports Education Office (PKO)

The East Flores Regional Government and the PKO Office are coordinating to receive the body, with representatives from Sogen’s family, foundations, and the Papua Regional Government also involved.

Remembering Rosalina: A Dedicated Educator and Caring Individual

Beyond her role as a teacher, Rosalina Sogen is remembered as a kind and generous individual. Her cousin, Nelson Sogen, described her as a humorous and spirited person within her family, always ready to help others.She would often use her own savings to buy food and provide assistance to children in her community.

He is not only the figure of a teacher for students, but also for his nephew as he frequently enough uses free time to teach and guide all his nephews at home.

Nelson Sogen, Rosalina’s Cousin

Her dedication extended beyond the classroom, as she frequently tutored her nephews and nieces, demonstrating her commitment to education and community advancement.

Chronicle of the Attack

According to Nelson Sogen, the attack occurred around 17:00 CET on Friday, March 21, 2025. Rosalina and other teachers noticed suspicious individuals near their residence. When Rosalina opened the door, she was attacked with sharp weapons. Other teachers were also injured in the attack, but managed to escape while the assailants targeted a nearby maternity clinic (Polindes), setting it ablaze.

Government and Community Response

the East Flores Regency Government, in collaboration with the Papua Flobamora Association and the Lewolema District Circle of Friends, has been working to facilitate the return of Rosalina Sogen’s body to her hometown.The Yahukimo Regency Government and a local foundation have pledged to cover all hospital and transportation costs.

We are also trying to ensure that all things the deceased can be fulfilled, both by the Ahukimo Regency Government and by the Foundation.

Antonius Doni Dihena, East Flores Regent

the East Nusa Tenggara Province (NTT) and East Flores Regency Governments have expressed their readiness to receive the remains of the unsung hero. The Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) East Flores Branch has also expressed their condolences and paid their respects at the funeral home.

Context: Security Concerns in Papua

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in Papua, where tensions between the Indonesian government and separatist groups persist. According to recent reports, violence in the region has seen a concerning uptick in the past year, impacting not only security personnel but also civilians, including teachers and healthcare workers. The Indonesian government has pledged to increase security measures while also pursuing dialog and development initiatives to address the root causes of the conflict. The safety and security of educators and other essential workers in Papua remain a critical concern.