The Indigenous Imo Malind Community in Sanggase Village, Okaba District, Merauke Regency, is actively working to strengthen the recognition of their customary territory as a fundamental part of their identity and ancestral heritage. Acknowledging the importance of securing land rights, EcoNusa Foundation and the community initiated a participatory mapping process from February 6-13, 2025.
Aimed at clarifying boundaries and reinforcing legal recognition. The process involved socialization and indicative mapping, followed by GPS training for local youth, equipping them with the skills to independently collect coordinate data. The mapping also included marking territorial boundaries, later validated through customary deliberations to ensure legitimacy.
Throughout the process, territorial differences were resolved through customary dialogues, demonstrating the community’s commitment to collaborative governance. Additionally, cultural heritage, including traditional houses and customary artifacts, was documented to preserve and strengthen the identity of the Imo Malind people. This initiative plays a crucial role in protecting indigenous rights, preserving customary territories, and ensuring that cultural heritage remains vibrant for future generations.
Text: Rievki | Photos: Basthen Mandowen
