Abstract:
In rural forest areas, plants and animals provide communities’ daily needs as well as marketable
products that generate income for local communities. Healthy forests not only provide
important ecological functions but also contribute to an indigenous population’s economy and
culture. Papua is an important region in the world to study the social importance of tropical
rainforests, as this vast region contains over 250 ethnic groups, most of whom depend on forest
ecology for their livelihood. This research was aims to understand the process and utilization
technique of Raja’s seeds (Pangium edule) as a traditional food source according to the
indigenous knowledge of the Aifat people in Kumurkek, Aifat sub-District, Maybrat Regency.
The study uses descriptive methods, field observations, and semi-structured interviews. Results
indicate that there are six stages of Raja’s seeds processing, including seed harvesting,
poaching, slicing, soaking in a river, and culminating in consumption. Tools and materials used
in processing the seeds include machetes, wood, stone, and metal pans. As of now, there is no
conservation scheme to preserve the Raja plant. However, the knowledge of Raja plant
production is still bequeathed among relatives according to local tradition. Further research is
needed in order to find other benefits of this species, such as use as a natural pesticide and other
potential products that can provide additional income for the Aifat sub-District.
