A recent study conducted by a research team from Diponegoro University revealed the maritime cultural wealth of the community living in Kampung Sowek, Supiori, Papua. This research uses historical and ethnographic methods to explore the maritime cultural ecology of the Sowek community who have lived in the Aruri Islands for centuries.
The research conducted by Endang Susilowati (2024) titled “The Maritime Cultural Ecology of the Biak People: A Historical Study of the Sowek Region, Supiori Regency, Papua” in the journal Sejarah Citra Lekha highlights that the economic activities of the Sowek community are largely focused on fishing, where they catch fish using a type of net called a capirepi and engage in trade with other islands. In addition, they also preserve the mangrove forests that serve as fish habitats and natural fortifications for their village. In addition, they also preserve the mangrove forests that serve as fish habitats and natural barriers for their village.
Since 2003, Supiori has been a separate regency from Biak Numfor Regency based on Law No. 35 of 2003. The Sowek community, which is part of the Biak tribe, has a strong identity tied to their geographical location. The Supiori region, mostly surrounded by the sea and mangrove forests, with only 25% dry land, has shaped the Sowek community’s dependence on marine resources and maritime trade.
This research also highlights the astronomical knowledge possessed by the Sowek community, which enables them to explore distant waters and bring back new cultures into their traditions. They use traditional boats such as Wairon, Waimansusu, and Karures, and have a deep understanding of constellations like Orion and Scorpion for navigation.
In a broader context, this research emphasizes the importance of understanding maritime cultural ecology as an integral part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, particularly in the eastern region. This research is funded by the Faculty of Humanities, Diponegoro University, and is expected to make a significant contribution to the documentation and scientific publication of maritime culture in Indonesia.
With their rich knowledge and traditions, the Sowek community continues to adapt and utilize the natural potential around them, making them a living example of maritime cultural sustainability in this modern era.
https://rri.co.id/iptek/1271414/menyelami-budaya-maritim-di-sowek-supiori-papua
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