YAPEN, AUGUST 28, 2024 – In an effort to honor customs and traditions, Benyamin Arisoi, a prospective candidate for the Regent of Yapen Islands Regency, accompanied by Roi Palunga, the prospective Deputy Regent, made an important visit to the Yapen Regional Customary Council Office. The visit was conducted to seek blessings from the representatives of the seven customary tribes in Yapen Islands Regency as part of their preparations for the 2024 Regional Election.

The event was also attended by supporting coalition parties and community sympathizers who expressed their support. The occasion was enlivened by a sacred traditional ceremony, symbolizing respect for ancestral traditions.

In his speech, Benyamin Arisoi stated that as a member of the indigenous community, it is important to visit the customary house and seek permission and blessings from the elders before stepping into the democratic process. "We came to the elders' house before making a declaration. This is our step to seek permission, bid farewell, and receive the official blessing from the customary council, which will accompany our journey from declaration, registration at the KPU, to entering the 2024 Regional Election competition," he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Yapen Regional Customary Council, Wellem Zaman Bonai, stated that the customary house is a gathering place for the seven tribes and a symbol of unity. He emphasized that when the indigenous children come seeking blessings, the customary council has an obligation to grant them. "Parents have criteria for their children, but when they have made a decision, as parents, we are obliged to bless them. Today, Mr. Benyamin Arisoi and Mr. Roi Palunga have come, and we bless them," he explained.

Wellem Zaman Bonai also added that the election must be conducted peacefully, and whoever is elected will be part of the large indigenous family. "I am handing over the oar to their tribe to row through this competition," he added, giving symbolic support to the candidate pair.

This visit reflects the strong respect for traditional values within the Yapen community and strengthens the traditional support for Benyamin Arisoi and Roi Palunga in their journey toward the 2024 Regional Election.