Amung people

Amung

Total population
Approximately 20,000
Regions with significant populations
Languages
Amung
Religion
Indigenous beliefs, Christianity
Related ethnic groups
Dani people, Asmat people

The Amung people, also known as the Amungme, are an indigenous ethnic group residing in the highlands of Papua, Indonesia. They are primarily located in the Mimika Regency, near the town of Timika, and are known for their rich cultural heritage and close connection to the land.

History

The Amung people have lived in the mountainous regions of Papua for centuries. Traditionally, they were semi-nomadic, practicing shifting agriculture and hunting. The arrival of Dutch colonizers in the early 20th century and later the Indonesian government significantly impacted their way of life.

In the 1960s, the discovery of vast mineral resources, particularly copper and gold, in the Amungme territory led to the establishment of the Grasberg mine, one of the largest gold mines in the world. This has brought both economic opportunities and significant challenges to the Amung people, including environmental degradation and cultural disruption.

Culture

The Amung people have a rich cultural tradition that includes unique rituals, dances, and music. They are known for their elaborate ceremonies, which often involve singing, dancing, and the use of traditional instruments.

Language

The Amung speak the Amung language, which is part of the Trans–New Guinea language family. Efforts are being made to preserve the language, as younger generations increasingly adopt Indonesian as their primary language.

Religion

Traditionally, the Amung people practiced animism, believing in the spiritual connection between humans and nature. In recent decades, many Amung have converted to Christianity, although traditional beliefs often persist alongside Christian practices.

Economy

The economy of the Amung people has traditionally been based on subsistence agriculture, hunting, and gathering. However, the presence of the Grasberg mine has introduced new economic dynamics, providing jobs and infrastructure but also leading to social and environmental issues.

Challenges

The Amung people face several challenges, including the loss of traditional lands, environmental degradation due to mining activities, and cultural assimilation pressures. There have been ongoing disputes over land rights and compensation related to the mining operations.

See also

• Papua (province)
• Indigenous peoples of New Guinea
• Grasberg mine

References

• Ballard, Chris. "The Amungme, Kamoro & Freeport: How Indigenous Papuans Have Resisted the World's Largest Gold and Copper Mine." Cultural Survival Quarterly, 2002.
• Leith, Denise. "The Politics of Power: Freeport in Suharto's Indonesia." University of Hawaii Press, 2003.

External links

• Cultural Survival: The Amungme and Kamoro People of Papua, Indonesia