Papua has much uniqueness that you should find out because it is endless. In addition to physical traditions, West Papua also has an object-shaped tradition, Noken. Noken’s philosophy is great to explore, even though this object is “only” a bag.
Are you curious about the noken bag? Find out more in this special article for you below!
What is Noken?
Simply put, Noken is one of the typical Papuan cultures in the form of a bag. In some regions, the name may vary. Some refer to noken as Su, Hugula, Sum, Jum, Agia, Inoken/inokesin, Dump, and Ese.
Papuan women will make the bags using materials from nature that they find. The main ingredient is bark fiber. Some types of bark that can assemble into noken come from nawa trees, nenduam trees, and forest orchids.
Because it is made from natural materials, the technique of making it is also noteworthy. So to make it, you must first learn from the “Mama”.
Not only belonging to one tribe, but noken is also the identity of Papua. There are at least 250 tribes that make and use them.
People from these tribes use it as a substitute for bags to carry agricultural and garden products and their daily goods.
The Function of Noken for Papuans
Noken comes in various sizes, from small to large, and is used according to need. Farmers often use them to make it easier to carry heavy crops.
There are at least three sizes of noken, namely:
1. Yatoo
This is a large noken used for carrying groceries, transporting crops, firewood, and bringing children.
2. Gapagoo
This medium-sized noken is usually used to carry small amounts of groceries.
3. Mitutee
This type is widely used by students and college students to store books. Some use it to play and store their personal belongings.
Noken is also one of the gifts given to people who come to Papua for the first time. You can also buy them as souvenirs.
The way to use noken is different from a bag usually placed on the shoulder or back. You must put the strap on your forehead and drape it towards your back to wear it.
The Noken’s Philosophy
Not just a place to carry your belongings, noken also has a deep philosophical value.
Some of the philosophies you can find from noken include:
1. Precision, Patience, and Aesthetics
To make an excellent and robust noken, artisans must be patient and meticulous, especially making it manually.
2. Provision for Women
Since childhood, girls must learn to make noken. This gives the impression that when she can make a good noken after a long practice, she can also manage the household well.
3. Mutual Respect and Honesty
The noken design is pretty open so that others can see anything inside. From this, people can learn to respect each other’s property and live honestly.
4. Symbol of Peace
This bag has also become a symbol of peace between tribes. This is because, during the peace process, noken must always be included. In addition, all tribes in Papua also have the same ability, thus showing a similar cultural background.
Noken Stated as World Heritage
In 2012, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) designated noken as one of the world’s cultural heritage.
The noken UNESCO title is not just given because it goes through much consideration. Of all the criteria set by UNESCO, noken fulfills all of them. One of the goals of the title given by UNESCO is to maintain and protect noken to keep its sustainability.
From all the information above, not only are there many functions, but noken’s philosophy is also diverse and can be a guideline for life.
