Indonesia, Sept. 14 -- Indonesian soldiers are helping residents in remote parts of Papua's highlands by offering free health checks and providing seeds to grow food, military officials said Sunday.

The Yonif 521/DY Task Force visited homes in Yalimo District to carry out basic health checks under a government program called Cek Kesehatan Gratis (Free Health Check or CKG).

They examined residents, gave simple treatments, and offered health advice.

"We want to be present for the people who need us, even if the medical facilities are limited," said Lt. Col. Rahadyan Surya Murdata, who leads the task force.

"This is one way we show our care for their health," he said, adding that the service allows the task force personnel to improve dis...