Preserving Papuan Identity Through the 2026 Sentani Lake Festival

The sounds of the traditional triton musical instrument accompanied art performances during the 2026 Sentani Lake Festival at Khalkote Beach, Harapan Village, East Sentani District, Jayapura Regency, Papua, on Thursday (3/9/2026). The festival serves as a space for the community to showcase and preserve Papua’s rich traditional culture.

The 2026 Sentani Lake Festival carries the theme “My Culture is My Life”, positioning culture as a vital part of the identity and lives of the Papuan people. Various traditional art performances were presented during the festival held in the Khalkote Beach area.

The presence of the triton in the performance illustrates how traditional arts and musical instruments continue to be introduced to the community and the younger generation. The Sentani Lake Festival is also part of an effort to strengthen cultural preservation while introducing Papua’s richness to tourists.