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7 Unconventional Facts About West Papua That You Can’t Learn from Books

Indonesia is an archipelagic country with a multitude of scenic scenery and splendor that begs to be noticed. It is expected that by discovering its beauty, one might instill a sense of national pride in oneself. One of its wonders is in West Papua.

For those of you who love to learn about a part of Indonesia that so few people have heard of, this article is about seven facts about West Papua that may be of appeal. Get on board, and let’s go for a ride.

1. The Dowry Thing

Indonesia is a country with a rich cultural and traditional heritage. The habit of awarding dowries in West Papua is one of the most unusual. In general, it seems to be much as usual in other parts of Indonesia, except for the provision of porcelain plates known as Ben Bepon.

Another trait that defines it is the red and white flag, which is also affixed as part of the dowry ceremony for the potential bride and groom. This ritual is commonly referred to as the Iyakyaker.

2. The Koteka

The media can be incredibly deceiving at times. Consequently, we must do guerrillas to find the truth about something, for instance, facts about West Papua. Let’s just confess that most non-Papuans believe Papuans always wear Koteka.

The Koteka was once a popular item worn by male Papuans. However, due to the region’s increased massive infrastructure growth, as well as the Papua modernization program, these traditional clothing items are rarely seen now.

Except for attending traditional rites or special occasions, Koteka is nearly unheard of nowadays. This is also due to the government’s directive not to use Koteka in public locations.

3. The Finger Cutting Tradition

If you’re a Vikings fan, you’ll acknowledge their dreadful habit when someone dies. Such tradition is enough to make us lose our urge to eat for a while since it is too traumatic.

Well, Indonesia has its native version in West Papua, namely the finger-cutting practice when a relative dies, which is also done by women, similar to the Vikings’ ritual. 

It is supposed to be an expression of grief for the loss of a loved one. Locals refer to it as Ikapilin, which is found in Dani heritage.

4. The Food

Papeda is a popular dish. Not only in this province but also throughout Indonesia. This dish is derived from sago, which is a regular option in Papua’s daily diet.

Another food to take notice of is the sago caterpillar satay snacks. So, when locals harvest or cut down sago trees, they frequently discover a swarm of sago caterpillars crawling around and rotting. But in the end, those adorable caterpillars are then fried and eaten.

5. The Dearest Territory of Dutch

The unfortunate reality about this region is that, in addition to being highly rich, it is also one of the most prone to conflict. Please keep in mind that this territory was once occupied by the Dutch kingdom and was the hardest for Indonesia to recapture.

So it took Indonesia nearly 20 years to take over this area, from 1949 to 1969. Furthermore, May 1, which we generally associate with International Labor Day, is also commemorated as the day West Papua was liberated from Dutch control.

6. A Hundred Times Beautiful Than Bali

By far, the most popular tourist destination is Bali. But, you know, this eastern region is considerably more gorgeous and offers more breathtaking views. Raja Ampat, Sapta Ratna Pagoda, Pasir Timbul Beach, Framu Lake, and so on. Simply put, its beauty extends beyond Raja Ampat and encompasses the entire island.

7. It is Not Only About Forest

Alongside President Jokowi’s attempt to develop the Trans-Papua road, the Papuan economy is expanding and even outpacing national economic growth.

So the city’s development has become more extensive. West Papua now is no longer just about its natural beauty; there is a touch of modernity with the establishment of shopping centers and city centers with a range of services and facilities.