Donald joins initiation dance

North Fly MP James Donald joined his tribesmen during a traditional initiation dance at the Sel Kambang Festival in Western.

Donald, who is the patron of the festival, danced alongside the Waitu cultural group from Diabi and Gasuke villages in the East Awin area, located east of Kiunga along the upper Fly River.

The group performed the traditional initiation dance, which symbolises a young man’s transition into adulthood and remains a vital part of East Awin cultural practices.

According to the group’s narrator, all costumes and attire worn by the performers were made strictly from natural bush materials, including the traditional dyes and colours used for body decoration.

The colourful performance showcased the rich and intact cultural heritage of the East Awin people.

Festival-goers cheered and clapped as the local MP joined his people in the arena, celebrating the event and keeping their customs alive.