Kuala Kencana in Mimika, a modern green city with complete facilities and innovative technology, presents a different charm in the heart of Papua.
Amidst the image of Papua which is identical with wilderness, there is Kuala Kencana, a modern district which is home to PT Freeport Indonesia employees.
Located about 15 minutes from Timika, Kuala Kencana was established with a different concept from other cities in Papua, combining modern infrastructure with environmental sustainability.
It is a city with a beautiful environment, complete facilities, and advanced technology systems that are rarely found in Indonesia.
History of Kuala Kencana: From a New City to a Green City
Kuala Kencana was inaugurated on December 5, 1995 by President Soeharto, and was initially known as Kota Baru before being officially named “Kuala Kencana” which means “Golden Pot.”
This name reflects the value of the area as a residential area that supports the operations of PT Freeport Indonesia.
Today, Kuala Kencana stands as a well-integrated independent district in Mimika Regency, covering approximately 860.74 square kilometers, which includes housing, administrative centers, and other public facilities.
Geographical Location of Kuala Kencana: A Green City Without a Beach
Kuala Kencana is located in the lowlands, between 200 and 1,600 meters above sea level, and is surrounded by dense tropical forests. This area borders several districts, namely:
- North: Deiyai Regency
- South: Iwaka District, Kwamki Narama, and New Mimika
- West: New Mimika District
- East: West Mimika District
The Kuala Kencana area is known for its extensive primary and secondary forests, as well as dryland farming areas, providing beautiful natural scenery around this modern settlement.
Interesting Facts about Kuala Kencana
1. Closed City, Not a Tourist Destination
Kuala Kencana is a special residential and administrative area managed by PT Freeport Indonesia. Unlike most cities, Kuala Kencana is not a tourist destination open to the public.
Only individuals with special permits can enter the area. Every vehicle is strictly checked at the checkpoint located on the border of Timika and Kuala Kencana, making this area very safe and exclusive.
2. Pioneer of a City Without Electric Poles
Kuala Kencana is the first city in Indonesia to implement an underground utilities system. All electrical cables, communication networks, clean water distribution, and sewage channels are installed underground, giving the city a neat and orderly appearance.
The waste management system here is directly connected to the processing center, a more advanced concept compared to many big cities in Indonesia. This approach ensures that the environment is maintained and there is minimal visual pollution.
3. Modern Home Design Without Fence
Residences in Kuala Kencana have a typical Western-style design, without fences, and with large yards. The neatly arranged and minimalist houses blend in with the surrounding nature, giving a clean and modern impression.
Some of the main housing complexes in Kuala Kencana include Bumi Satwa Indah, Tirta Indah, and the Bougenville complex. This fence-free structure creates a friendly and open atmosphere, while creating a difference from the housing in general in Indonesia.
4. Complete Facilities for Daily Needs
Kuala Kencana offers complete facilities designed to meet the needs of its residents, from sports centers to educational services. The city has a football field, indoor badminton court, indoor futsal, Olympic-standard swimming pool, and golf course.
In addition, there are also public facilities such as schools, a square known as The Plaza, restaurants, libraries, and salons. Residents can also worship comfortably in the mosque and church provided, creating a balanced life in the middle of this modern city.
5. A beautiful and well-maintained green environment
Kuala Kencana is designed with a green city concept, where every corner is filled with well-maintained trees and green parks. The expanse of grass, shady trees, and pedestrian paths make this environment very comfortable for pedestrians.
This concept allows the city to maintain the preservation of nature while providing fresh air for its residents. No wonder, Kuala Kencana is dubbed as a “green oasis in the middle of the Papuan forest.”
Tips for Visiting Kuala Kencana
If you get special permission to visit Kuala Kencana, here are some tips that can help you while you are there :
1. Pay attention to the Entry Access Regulations
Make sure you bring any necessary ID or permits. Every access to Kuala Kencana is strictly checked, so it is very important to ensure you have official permission.
2. Respect Cleanliness and Safety
Kuala Kencana is an area that is very clean, so it is important not to throw rubbish carelessly. Also comply with safety rules and regulations in residential areas.
3. Comply with Privacy Rules
As a private residential area, please respect the privacy of local residents and private facilities. This includes avoiding taking photos in prohibited areas or without permission.
Kuala Kencana in Mimika, Papua, is a unique modern city with complete facilities and a beautiful atmosphere, offering a different experience in Papua. Designed as a green city with cutting-edge technology, Kuala Kencana provides comfort and security for its residents.
Neat infrastructure, the concept of a fence-free residence, and adequate public facilities make this city one of the most attractive destinations for those who get the chance to see it.
With its combination of modern design and environmental sustainability, Kuala Kencana shows that advanced urban development can be in harmony with the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Although limited to residents and those with special permits, Jayawijaya Mountains still shows a different face of Papua a green city that offers comfort, tranquility, and innovation in the middle of a tropical forest.