Vice Governor: Pesparawi Cultural Carnival Reflects Indonesia's Diversity

Manokwari (ANTARA) - West Papua Vice Governor Mohamad Lakotani said the cultural carnival for the 14th National Church Choir Festival (Pesparawi) in 2026 in Manokwari reflects the cultural, ethnic, and traditional diversity of the Indonesian nation. The carnival is not only a supporting agenda to enliven the Pesparawi Nasional XIV event from 18 to 28 June 2026, but also a space for expression to showcase the wealth of local wisdom from each province. “Participants in the carnival come from 38 provinces in Indonesia taking part in the National Pesparawi, including associations of indigenous tribes and Nusantara tribes living in Manokwari,” Lakotani said in Manokwari on Friday. Through the parade, he said, the local government is not only trying to promote the spirit of the National Pesparawi, but also to educate the public about the importance of preserving cultural heritage, traditional clothing, traditional music, and regional dances. “This Pesparawi National cultural carnival is a real form of Manokwari and West Papua being a friendly, comfortable, diverse, and religious region,” Lakotani stated. On the occasion, Lakotani invited all residents of Manokwari, who represent West Papua, to maintain security and order in their respective neighbourhoods to ensure the smooth implementation of the Pesparawi Nasional. “So that guests who come to Manokwari feel comfortable and later return to their respective regions with a smile,” Lakotani said. The 14th National Pesparawi carries the theme “Environmentally Friendly Pesparawi Nasional” as a commitment to preserving nature while strengthening national unity and harmony. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is scheduled to open the 14th National Pesparawi in 2026 at RTP Borarsi Manokwari on 20 June 2026, and will then continue his visit to a cocoa development centre in South Manokwari Regency.