Papua Chronicle – Mimika. Mimika Regent candidate, Maximus Tipagau, received full support from the seven indigenous tribes in Mimika during a stone burning ritual on Tuesday, (10/8/2024). The ritual, which was held in the backyard of the SP2 Timika Regional Government housing complex, was attended by all the seven tribes starting from the Amungme, Kamoro, Dani, Nduga, Moni, Mee, and Damal tribes.
Maximus Tipagau, who was paired with Peggi Patrisia Pattipi, was paraded from the SP2 road to the stone burning ritual field by the seven tribes. The procession was going lively accompanied by lively traditional dances.
The traditional stone burning event is a symbol of unity and gratitude in Papuan culture. Smoke from heated stones and the aroma of grilled food fill the air, creating an atmosphere full of intimacy and kinship among the supporters.
In his remarks, Maximus Tipagau expressed his deep gratitude for the support provided by the indigenous community.
“I feel very honored and touched by the support given by all tribes in Mimika. This support is a great motivation for me and Mama Peggi to work hard to realize our vision and mission to build a better Mimika,” said Maximus Tipagau.
Ruben Kobagau, Head of the Moni Tribe in Mimika, in his speech emphasized that the Moni tribe, along with six other tribes, are ready to provide full support for Maximus Tipagau and Peggi Patricia Pattipi.
“We, the Moni people in Mimika, along with the other six tribes here, are determined to fully support Max-Peggi. This is our choice, for the better future of Mimika.” said Ruben Kobagau.
Max also emphasized that his victory was a shared victory for all the people of Mimika who wanted change. “This is not just about us, this is about the Mimika we love. I invite all people to work together to create a better future,” says Max.
Peggi Patricia Pattipi, the Mimika Deputy Regent candidate, also expressed her gratitude and thanks for the continued support. Peggi emphasized her and Max’s commitment to fighting for the rights of the people and bringing about real change, especially in improving welfare, education, health, and infrastructure development that is evenly distributed throughout the Mimika region. “We are ready to work hard to realize a more advanced, just, and prosperous Mimika,” said Peggi.
This stone-burning event also became a means of gathering between tribes and supporters of Max-Peggi. The presence of thousands of people from various backgrounds created an atmosphere full of togetherness and strong determination to win the pair. A number of community leaders, youth, and women also attended and gave testimonies of their support, emphasizing the importance of Max-Peggi’s vision and mission to bring Mimika in a better direction.
The Head of the Organizing Committee, Paskalis Emani, said that the stone burning ritual is a hereditary tradition that is always carried out by the Mimika indigenous community to support their prospective leaders.
“This stone burning ritual is a manifestation of our respect and support for Maximus Tipagau and Peggi Patrisia Pattipi. We believe that they are both capable of leading Mimika towards progress,” said Paskalis.
This stone burning event took place very lively and solemnly. All the tribes present mingled and had fun together, showing the unity and spirit of togetherness among the Mimika traditional community.