Checkpapuanow.com – A recent study by researchers from Diponegoro University has unveiled the rich maritime culture of the Sowek community in Supiori, Papua. Using historical and ethnographic methods, the study delves into the maritime cultural ecology of the Sowek people, who have thrived in the Aruri Islands for centuries.
Conducted by Endang Susilowati (2024), the research, titled The Maritime Cultural Ecology of the Biak People: A Historical Study of the Sowek Region, Supiori Regency, Papua, was published in the journal Sejarah Citra Lekha. The study highlights the Sowek community’s economic activities, which primarily revolve around fishing. Utilizing traditional nets called capirepi, the locals engage in fishing and trade with neighboring islands. Furthermore, they actively preserve mangrove forests, which not only serve as fish habitats but also act as natural barriers for their village.
Supiori was officially established as a separate regency from Biak Numfor in 2003 under Law No. 35 of 2003. The Sowek people, who are part of the Biak ethnic group, maintain a strong identity deeply rooted in their geographic location. With Supiori’s landscape being predominantly surrounded by sea and mangroves—only 25% of the area comprises dry land—the community heavily depends on marine resources and maritime trade for their livelihood.
The study also sheds light on the Sowek people’s advanced knowledge of astronomy, which enables them to navigate distant waters and incorporate new cultural elements into their traditions. They utilize traditional boats, such as Wairon, Waimansusu, and Karures, and rely on constellations like Orion and Scorpius for navigation. This astronomical expertise has been instrumental in sustaining their maritime activities across generations.
In a broader context, the research underscores the importance of understanding maritime cultural ecology as a vital component of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, particularly in its eastern regions. Supported by the Faculty of Humanities at Diponegoro University, the study aims to contribute significantly to the documentation and dissemination of Indonesia’s maritime culture in scientific literature.
The Sowek community’s ability to adapt and sustain their traditional practices amidst modern challenges stands as a testament to their resilience. Their preservation of cultural and ecological knowledge serves as a living example of sustainable maritime culture in today’s world.
By bringing attention to the Sowek community’s practices, the study emphasizes the need for continued research and preservation efforts to safeguard the nation’s diverse cultural heritage. Such initiatives not only highlight the uniqueness of Indonesia’s eastern regions but also promote the global recognition of its maritime traditions.
