Jayapura, October 23, 2025 — Jakob Fiobetauw, Chair of the Customary Court of the Sentani Customary Council and Ondoafi (traditional leader) of Puay Village, has called on the public to remain calm in response to the destruction of confiscated Bird-of-Paradise specimens carried out by the Papua Provincial Office of the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA).
Fiobetauw stated that the burning has provoked anger among Indigenous communities, particularly because the Bird-of-Paradise is regarded as a sacred symbol of honor and identity for Indigenous Papuans (OAP), especially within the Sentani customary territory.
“The situation in Jayapura Regency and Jayapura City has become quite sensitive due to the burning of the Bird-of-Paradise headdress — a symbol of traditional leadership,” Fiobetauw said.
Nevertheless, he urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid being provoked by the unfolding situation.
“As Ondofolo, we ask our people to remain calm and allow the ongoing process to continue. We will hold discussions with the Papuan People’s Assembly (MRP) and report this matter to the Governor of Papua to seek a joint resolution,” he explained.
Fiobetauw affirmed that his council will pursue the matter through both customary and legal channels to ensure the dignity and honor of Indigenous Papuans are upheld.
“We will address this matter through customary law and legal mechanisms. Therefore, we urge everyone to stay composed and refrain from any reactive actions,” he concluded.
