Papua is the easternmost island in Indonesia which is already famous for its extraordinary natural beauty. Besides nature, Papua is rich with unique local traditions and culture. One of the local Papuan cultures already quite well known is the dance culture, often performed outside Papua. However, not many people know that apart from dances, there are still a lot of unique traditions and cultures stored in Papua, such as the following cultures and traditions you definitely have never known. Here are the West Papua facts and myths.
West Papua Facts and Myths
Facts About West Papua
- West Papua Meaning
West Papua is located at the western end or in the bird’s head area of Papua Island. Initially, the province was named West Irian Jaya (Law Number 45 of 1999).
Then, it changed to West Papua based on Government Regulation 45 of 2007. Abraham Octavianus Alaturi, who died on Friday (20/9), is known as the expansionist figure and the originator of development in West Papua.
- The First Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Papua
West Papua is located at the western end or in the bird’s head area of Papua Island. Initially, the province was named West Irian Jaya (Law Number 45 of 1999).
Then, it changed to West Papua based on Government Regulation 45 of 2007. The leading sectors in West Papua are agriculture, fisheries and forestry, oil and gas mining, and construction.
- Raja Ampat and the Tourism SEZ
The Bappeda of West Papua is preparing Rumberpon Island and Teluk Triton to be prepared as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Tourism. The island, directly adjacent to South Manokwari Regency, has other unique features, namely rare animals and sea eagles.
Moreover, West Papua facts and myths also have a well-known exotic area, Raja Ampat, with more than 1,500 islands. It is estimated that the oceans in Raja Ampat have 553 coral species and are home to 70% of the world’s coral species.
In addition, Raja Ampat has 1,456 species of reef fish, 699 species of mollusks, five species of turtles, and 16 species of marine mammals or cetaceans.
Most of the Raja Ampat area is a conservation area. There are 258 species of birds, of which 10 are endemic to Papua. The bald bird of paradise or Wilson bop is one of the rarest birds in the world. Others include the maleo waigeo or brush turkey and Kofiau monarch.
Myths About West Papua
- Forests Cover Most of West Papua
Papua is a large island divided into 2 provinces, namely West Papua with the capital city of Manokwari and Papua with the capital Jayapura. Besides that, it is also divided into various regencies and municipalities. Indeed, parts of Papua are still covered in forest.
Still, if you hear the names Jayapura, Sorong, Biak, Manokwari, Fak-Fak, Merauke, Wamena, and many others, you will believe that these names are already in the shape of a city.
Like a city in general, it has roads, traditional markets to supermarkets, several entertainment centers, and adequate facilities such as electricity, water, and even internet networks.
- It is Mandatory in Papua to Use a Koteka
Maybe some indigenous Papuans who live in the interior still use a koteka. But as I said before that some areas in Papua are already cities, so the way of dressing has also adapted to the city’s conditions as usual. Some people also follow the development of fashion and dress fashionable.
- There are Still Many Papuans who are Cannibals
In modern times, do you still have such primitive thoughts of West Papua Facts and Myths? Papua is not as depressing as it sounds. There is no longer cannibalism in Papua, so don’t easily believe these opinions, my friend. We often judge someone because of their physical appearance.
Indeed, Papuans have dark skin and height, which gives a scary impression. But behind it, Papuans uphold the value of brotherhood and are generally religiously obedient. They do not hesitate to help immediately if they see a relative or friend in trouble.
Wrapping Up
There are a lot of myths that are not true about West Papua. We hope this article about West Papua facts and myths allows you to explore more about West Papua. West Papua is a beautiful region with many sophisticated tourism destinations and incredible culture.
Another fascinating thing about West Papua is their humor. West Papuans have a great sense of humor. Get ready to laugh at the mop (funny stories) they like to tell when you are with them. In addition, Papuans are also very loyal friends!
