Papua is known to have a variety of unique traditions that are still preserved today, one of which is the traditional way of catching fish by coastal communities. This culture is not only part of everyday life, but also full of spiritual and social meanings.
One of the well-known methods is Snapmor, the practice of catching fish when the sea recedes, which is carried out in mutual cooperation as a form of gratitude and respect for nature.
This Snapmor tradition became the center of attention when the Daud Yosafat Church Congregation in Kakur Village, Oridek District, held the traditional procession. This cultural event was officially opened by the Regent of Biak Numfor, Markus Mansnembra.
“Snapmor is one of the Biak cultural assets passed down from generation to generation, as well as a form of citizen independence in raising funds for the construction of church facilities,” said Regent Markus in Biak, as quoted by ANTARA.
He expressed his appreciation to the GKI Kakur congregation for showing a high spirit in supporting the construction of houses of worship through local cultural initiatives.
As a form of support, the local government provides assistance of Rp. 50 million for the construction of a church fence,” he added.
The Snapmor procession also marks the opening of the relaxation period, which is a certain period when the use of marine products is again permitted after the prohibition period as a form of conservation of natural resources. This tradition shows people’s concern for the balance of marine ecosystems that are a source of their livelihood.
Markus also emphasized that this kind of cultural activity has great potential in the tourism sector. “In the future, we hope that Snapmor activities can be promoted more widely. The government is ready to help in terms of publication and development of cultural tourism,” he explained.
The event was also coupled with the initial casting as a symbol of the start of the construction of the church fence, strengthening the meaning of gotong royong and spirituality in the lives of the local community.
West Papua Now 