What West Papuan culture do you know? Traditional dances, local musical instruments, to special celebrations are some of the types of culture that you can find in this province. And on this occasion, we will discuss this in more depth.
Indonesia is a country full of culture. All provinces and regions have a unique culture that is rarely found in other areas. However, if you visit the province, you will be greeted with some special celebrations.
If you want to see a unique culture, then the island of Papua should not be missed on your list. This is the largest island in Indonesia with thousands of small islands around it. And from all these other islands and regions, there is a culture of its own.
Many travel bloggers are amazed by all the elements that exist on this island, including the province which is located in the west. Regarding culture, many things stand out and become an attraction for visitors to perpetuate and even promote it.
West Papua Cultural and Traditional Dance
First, we will discuss the culture and traditional dances that exist there. Regional dances originating from this province represent many values. We will discuss the “War Dance” first, it describes the bravery of the people there.
In addition, “Dance of War” is also often associated with heroes who try to defend Papuan territory from invaders. There is also the Awaijale Rilejale Dance which depicts how beautiful the sea of West Papua is when it enters dusk.
But not only that, there are still some traditional dances that are often performed. For example, Yospan dance is not actually from this province. But it is often used by dancers to provide entertainment when there is an event such as a wedding, and so on.
Usually, the dances that are displayed are also not arbitrary. They will use traditional clothing that comes from natural materials. For example, using a koteka, tassel skirt, and Sali to further represent the cultural elements.
Traditional Musical Instruments from West Papua
After knowing what constitutes culture in terms of dance, then we will continue with the discussion of the musical instruments that will be used. Because every dance will go along with musical instruments that are relevant to the dance that will be played.
For traditional music, again, the Papuan people prefer something natural. It is proven by all this traditional music made of wood. Instead of getting curious, have you heard about musical instruments such as Tifa, Yi, Triton, to Fuu?
In elementary school lessons, it must have been taught because it is a typical Papuan music scene. Tifa is a musical instrument that resembles a drum and Yi has the function and shape of a flute. The Triton is a distinctive musical instrument and is made of clamshells.
Triton also includes wind music and is often played on the beach. This instrument is also highly guarded and is often issued only for certain cultural activities. That is, there will be someone who has the authority to store it so that it is not damaged and dirty.
West Papua Local’s Traditional Ceremony
Continuing about the statement just now, the musical instruments and dances will only be shown at certain events. Not every time it is shown to the public. Even since entering this island alone, there will be a welcome with this traditional music and dances.
Just like ceremonies held in other areas, this will be a new attraction and sense of entertainment for visitors. Usually, this ceremony will be adjusted to the tribes of the West Papua region. So, these are some of the traditional rituals that are still performed:
- Pregnancy and birth ceremony
Because they are still very close to culture, when a member of a region becomes pregnant, it will be immediately greeted with joy. For example, there is a village that will perform a welcoming dance and the like.
Until the time of birth, certain villagers will also celebrate it. Some do blessings, documentation, to make certain trips. But it’s a culture, so it’s normal in the West Papua.
- Falabea Dance
The next celebration that is unique to this province is Falabea. This is a dance that is performed in the evening or at night in a wide field. This Falabea dance is also often a spectacle for visiting tourists.
- Tourist Welcoming
If you are going to visit the West Papua region, to be precise, if it is deeper inland, then get ready to be given an attractive welcome. There will be some dancing to make you feel welcome, so this also makes a good impression.
This welcoming matter is usually done at the edge of the pier. Since the boat pulled up, a typical musical instrument will sound as if it is getting ready to welcome you. Followed by local dance and accompany you until you arrive at the pick up.
The shows shown there are not meant to be made a joke. Visitors must respect what is displayed while still giving good attention. Because this is a matter of West Papuan culture, something that should not be left alone.
