Jayapura, Jan. 16 -- The Papua provincial government announced plans to develop 14,000 homes for residents this year, starting in urban coastal areas.

"We have proposed constructing 14,000 housing units within one fiscal year," Papua Governor Mathius Fakhiri said, adding that the program will begin with a pilot project on Kosong Island in Jayapura City.

Speaking in Jayapura on Friday, he said the housing initiative as part of the government's strategy to improve public welfare while enhancing settlement arrangements and spatial planning.

"Housing development will certainly conform with local wisdom," he added.

Fakhiri further said his office will coordinate closely with municipal and district governments to assess actual housing needs...