Speaking about the culture in West Papua will take years to finish. There are too many interesting and beautiful things you can find there. This time, we are going to find more about a unique west papua custom that you may never found elsewhere. Let’s see what they are!
Carrying A Weapon
It is not an uncommon sign in West Papua, where many people carrying a weapon. It is varying from a short blade similar to a machete to a bow and arrow. The legend said that in the past, missionaries came to this area. But, the people that lived here didn’t accept them and kill them. Thus, they were cursed by those missionaries. Therefore, they have to carry a weapon every time they leave the house. Now, it becomes something like a custom whenever people leave the house.
The Marriage Custom
If a man of West Papua people wants to marry a woman, they have to give several gifts to the family of the woman. It is similar to dowry, but the groom that gives the bride and her family upon marriage. The object that they give sometimes makes you surprised.
For example, they give hundreds of millions of Rupiah in cash. It is equal to around ten to twenty thousand dollars. Other than money, the dowry also can be accessories, pigs, and even the latest Smartphone. It depends on the bride and her family’s request.
Tari Tumbuk (Pounding Dance)
This dance is a common activity that many people do. Interestingly, it is not only when there is a festival or cultural event. People in West Papua do this pounding dance whenever they want. You can even see them dance on the roadside during the night just to get their body warm. That makes it a unique west papua custom you should see whenever you have a chance.
The length of the dance is various. We even see some people do this pounding dance for six hours. They dance while singing as well. The lyrics of the song mostly are about plants, gardens, and the history of how the Christian religion enters this area and was accepted by its people. Some lyrics also tell the story about the tribe war in the past. If you understand what they said, you will be amazed by this unique west papua culture.
Walking
Walking is also another custom in West Papua. Many people still do this custom whenever they want to go to someplace. In West Papua, the Arfak tribe is well-known for its stamina and ability to walk for a very long distance. They even walk for a week, go through the forest, and travel hundreds of kilometers.
Mansorandak Tradition
Mansorandak is a ceremony to welcome a family member that returns from a long trip. Mostly, they went to other places or islands to study or work. It is a form of gratitude towards that family member that finally joins with them, healthily and safely.
One of the unique parts of this tradition is the family member that just returned must step on a traditional plate. It is a symbol that a family member is ready to face the challenge in the future. Because of this part, Mansorandak is also known as the plate stepping tradition. This tradition is the Biak tribe tradition that lives in the Doreri bay, Manokwari, West Papua.
Conclusion
What we mentioned above is only a tiny fraction of the beautiful and unique custom you can find in West Papua. It is your call the find more about them and the culture of West Papua. Therefore, you should spare your time to visit this area. Find more about west papua custom and experience unforgettable moments here.
