The Pre-Customary Assembly on Participatory Mapping, held from May 24–30, 2025, in Sanggase Village, Okaba District, Merauke, marked a crucial step toward the recognition of the Malind Imo customary territory. Facilitated by the EcoNusa Foundation and supported by the Provincial Government of South Papua, the activity focused on clarifying territorial boundaries, verifying clan data and cultural traditions, and consolidating the local community.
Beyond mapping, the program included cultural documentation, economic discussions on village-based livelihoods (such as copra and egg-laying poultry farming), and institutional strengthening through a community dialogue on alcohol prohibition. These initiatives aim to reinforce the legal foundation, cultural identity, and autonomy of the Indigenous community.
This process underscored the importance of collaboration among clans, customary institutions, and residents in building inclusive and sustainable governance for customary lands, leading up to the full Customary Assembly scheduled for the end of July 2025.
Text: Rievki | Photos: Lora Tri Mallisa
