Irian tribe loyal to RI

JAYAPURA, Irian Jaya: Amid the cries for independence that have prevailed in this province, the Malamoi tribe in Sorong regency have pledged their loyalty to the Republic of Indonesia.

Yulius Klagison, the head of the Malamoi tribe's consultative body, said early this week demands for independence were voiced by those with vested interests.

"Do not provoke the poor with independence demands. The campaign is just fought by people who are pursuing their own goals," he said.

"The Malamoi people will not follow suit, but maintain unity with the Republic of Indonesia instead," Klagison said.

He said the tribe, who are the inheritors the land where Sorong is located, welcomed the arrival of non-Papuans. Malamoi people live in 10 out of 15 districts in the regency.

Kalgison said representatives of Bugis (Makassar), Java, Batak, Maluku and Toraja ethnic groups will be invited to a planned cross-cultural meeting. However, the date for the event has not been finalized. (eba)