Celebrating Our Cultural Legacy with Master Navigator PWO Sesario Sewralur and Alingano Maisu

The Welcome Ceremony for Alingano Maisu, the vessel with a double-hulled canoe carrying ancestral navigation knowledge, on 13th August 2023, was a powerful demonstration of community solidarity in Palau. His Excellency Surangel S. Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, resonated with respected members of the Palau National Congress, State Government Leadership, dignitaries, and the public. This event highlighted the strength of a united community, honouring and celebrating shared heritage.

Alingano Maisu boasts a captivating history and stands as a cherished legacy within the Micronesian Voyaging Society (MVS).

Reviving the ancient art of traditional non-instrumental navigation within the Pacific Islands, the MVS emerges as a staunch advocate for safeguarding cultural heritage and nurturing education. With its roots embedded in history and ancient wisdom, MVS remains steadfast in upholding traditional wayfinding amidst the changing currents of modernisation.

Navigating Through Cultural Identity: The Profound Significance

The ancient practice of navigating the Pacific Islands extends beyond simply crossing the ocean. It embodies an individual's identity, wisdom, and a deep connection with the natural world. These navigation practices have been passed down through generations, shaping Pacific Island societies with their beliefs, values, and way of life.

Skilled navigators, known as 'wayfinders', possess an intricate understanding of wind patterns, wave behaviours, celestial bodies, stars, and the flight patterns of birds and fish. These skills are more than just tools; they form an intricate tapestry of knowledge that connects individuals to their forebears, communities, and cherished environment.

Traditional navigation surpasses practicality; it is intertwined with myths, legends, and oral traditions that weave a narrative connecting the past to the present. The transfer of these skills is more than education; it is considered a duty carried out by elders who guarantee cultural practices continue and collective memory is maintained.

Pacific Island communities have a deep historical connection to navigation, showcasing resilience and adaptability from colonial times to the era of globalisation and technological advancements. Wayfinding has consistently demonstrated their strength and reinforced their place within the diverse tapestry of global cultures.

Embracing Age-Old Wisdom: The Journey of Alingano Maisu

At the heart of MVS' mission lies the vessel Alingano Maisu. Leading this voyage is PWO Sesario Sewralur, son of the late Pius "Mau" Piailug, a revered Satawalese navigator. Mau’s legacy is a testament to the preservation and revival of ancient wayfinding traditions in the Pacific Islands. His expertise in traditional navigation techniques rekindled a connection to the open ocean without modern instruments. Mau's teachings not only safeguarded the cultural heritage of Pacific Island communities but also inspired a new generation of navigators who continue to practice and pass on this invaluable knowledge.

This remarkable journey highlighted the value of passing on traditional navigational knowledge and techniques to the coming generations. Many of Sesario's students attend Palau's only institution of higher education, the Palau Community College (PCC). These students embarked on a transformative voyage with their mentor. The act of imparting this ancient wisdom illustrates the commitment to equitable education, as it not only provides these students with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience but also ensures that they will carry Mau's legacy across the Pacific and beyond, which is embodied in the principles of SDG 4, which are to ensure that everyone, regardless of background, has access to quality education and the opportunity to continue learning throughout their lives.

Preserving Our Cultural Legacy Through Celestial Navigation and Sustainable Practices (SDG 14 and 11)

At the core of this revival is the reawakening of a navigation system intricately tied to natural elements—wind patterns, ocean surges, and the behaviour of birds and fish. This system, transmitted through generations, captures Pacific Island societies' unyielding spirit and boundless ingenuity, passed down through oral tradition. Their collective knowledge ensures that diverse cultural traditions will continue to be a part of society for generations to come. Moreover, their commitment to sustainability aligns with SDG 14, where they endeavour to protect and preserve our oceans, as well as SDG 11, specifically target 11.4, which seeks to strengthen efforts to protect and safeguard the world's cultural and natural heritage.

A Journey Fuelled by Determination and Renewal

The voyage embarked upon by Alingano Maisu stands as a testament to the resolve behind this navigation system. Departing on Sunday, 30th April 2023, from the marina of Malakal's Drop Off Bar & Grill, this vessel undertook an arduous journey across Western Micronesia. Its triumphant return on 7th August 2023 further underscores the importance of this cherished tradition.

Cultural Stewards: Guardians of Our Heritage

The unwavering dedication of MVS is embodied in its board members' passion and leadership. Figures like President Shallum Etpison, Vice President ADELBAIRATANG Alan R. Seid, Secretary/Treasurer DILRUK Faustina K. Rehuher-Marugg, REKLAI Raphael Bao Ngirmang, MADRANGEBUKED Tommy E. Remengesau Jr., NGIRAITEI Dr Victor Yano and Master Navigator PWO Sesario Sewralur, serve as vigilant custodians who protect and perpetuate this invaluable cultural heritage. Their collective wisdom ensures the rich tapestry of heritage remains woven into society's fabric for generations. Their dedication and leadership align with the broader global goal of preserving cultural heritage, as outlined in SDG 11 target 11.4.

Preserving Tradition and Embracing Our Cultural Roots

President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. emphasised heritage preservation in his address. The Honourable Senator Umiich Sengebau and the Honourable Warren Umetaro echoed this sentiment. Mr Jaap van Hierden, UN Resident Coordinator of MCO Micronesia, furthered its significance through support for promoting and conserving non-instrumental navigation methods.

Nurturing Our Legacy, Shaping Our Future and Sustaining Our Oceans

In a world where the fusion of connectivity and respect for traditions occurs, Sesario, his team, and the Micronesian Voyaging Society go beyond the boundaries of the Pacific. They derive inspiration from wisdom to foster comprehension, appreciation for heritage, harmony, perseverance, and a deep bond with nature. Their unwavering commitment upholds the belief that even though routes may alter, the stars remain steadfast as guiding lights but also as reminders of our collective responsibility to protect our oceans and marine life for future generations, aligning with SDG 14.