By Francis Talasasa , Reporter
The country’s 22nd independence celebration has brought a look back to Palau’s culture and history on the ‘cycle of life’ demonstration at the Belau National Museum.
Visiting guests, diplomatic officials , government ministers and officials took part and witnessed the program on Friday night.
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Minister for the community and Cultural affairs Baklai Tmengil- Chilton made a brief introduction when welcoming the guests and officials.
Director of the Belau National Museum Mrs. Olympia Morei explained the overview of the cycle of life in Palauan society starting from the celebration of birth and ending with the celebration of life’ final achievement in death. This is seen through an ethnobotanical perspective the importance of plants in the lives of Palauans.
There are 5 themes being showcased because of their significance in a person’s life which include Cheroll (childbirth) and omersurch Omengat and Mo-Tuobed (Herbal Hoth Bath Process and Ceremony).
Mesei (Taro Patch), Omenged (Fishing), Bai (Men’s Traditional Meeting House) and Kemeldiil (Funeral). All these themes are tied in with a focus on the Uum (kitchen) that binds all the customs together in harmony between families and clans.
This exhibit best captures the lifestyle cycle of a person when viewed going clockwise starting on your left with Childbirth and Herbal Hot Bath Processes and Ceremony and going around the room until you reach the final panel which is the Funeral.
The exhibit is reflecting the nature and the way of life of the people of Palau. It is a natural heritage encouraged to be passed on to next generations of Palau to maintain the identity and its culture.
The ‘Cycle of Life’ program is funded by the Global Environment Facility through its GEF small grants programme. [/restrict]