Mappi Regency

History

#

History of Mappi Regency: Traces of Civilization on the South Papua Swamps

Mappi Regency, located in eastern Indonesia, is a unique region spanning 24,066.17 km². Known as the "City on the Swamps," its capital, Kepi, holds a long historical narrative connecting indigenous traditions with the dynamics of colonial politics up to the formation of the new province of South Papua.

##

Cultural Roots and Pre-Colonial Era

Mappi's history is rooted in the lives of five indigenous tribes: Yaqhai, Korowai, Kombai, Citak Mitak, and Awyu. Traditionally, the people of Mappi lived in harmony with the river and swamp ecosystems that dominate their landscape. Adat leadership was based on lineage and control over customary land.

A unique fact is the presence of the Korowai tribe in northern Mappi, internationally known for their tradition of building houses on tall trees, a form of self-defense adaptation and respect for nature that has persisted for centuries.

##

Dutch Colonial Era and the Naming of Mappi

External influence began to enter significantly in the early 20th century. The name "Mappi" itself is believed to originate from the name of a Dutch expedition ship that mapped the river basin. In the 1930s, the Dutch colonial government began establishing administrative posts to oversee the southern inland areas of Papua. Kepi was chosen as the center due to its strategic location at the confluence of major rivers. During this period, Catholic missions also began to enter the Mappi region, pioneered by missionaries from the Missionarii Sacratissimi Cordis (MSC). The education and health services introduced by the missionaries became the initial foundation for the social transformation of the local community.

##

Integration and the Struggle for Independence

Following the Proclamation of Indonesian Independence in 1945, the Mappi region became part of the West Irian dispute between Indonesia and the Netherlands. Local leaders from the Awyu and Yaqhai tribes played a role in supporting integration into the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia (NKRI). After the People's Opinion Determination (PEPERA) in 1969, Mappi officially became part of Indonesia, initially under the administration of Merauke Regency as a Deputy Regent's Area (Kecamatan).

##

Expansion and Modern Development

A crucial moment occurred in 2002. Based on Law Number 26 of 2002, Mappi officially became an independent, definitive regency, separating from Merauke Regency. This inauguration marked a new chapter in infrastructure development, including the construction of a port and airport to overcome geographical isolation. In 2022, history was made again with the formation of the Province of South Papua, of which Mappi is a key pillar.

##

Cultural Heritage and Historical Sites

Mappi's historical heritage is also reflected in traditional festivals like the Sago Worm Festival and traditional dances using tifa (drums) with distinctive Mappi motifs. Prominent historical sites include old Dutch-era churches in coastal districts and local struggle monuments dedicated to the independence pioneers in the swampy areas. Today, with its "Epic" status in its geostrategic context, Mappi continues to develop as a center for economic growth based on natural resources and local wisdom in eastern Nusantara.