Timika – The Tolikara Regency Government (Pemkab Tolikara) is committed to establishing the region as a center for spiritual tourism in the Papua Highlands Province.
Tolikara Regent Willem Wandik, in a press release received in Timika on Sunday, stated that with its rich cultural heritage and spiritual wealth, Tolikara seeks to show the world that the Papua Highlands region is not only blessed with natural beauty but also holds a deep history and profound faith.
“In this development process, we will collaborate with the Papua Highlands Provincial Government in providing access to transportation and adequate infrastructure so that this spiritual tourism destination can be reached comfortably and safely,” he said.
According to Wandik, as a form of respect and recognition for this important historical event, the Tolikara Regency Government will soon establish an official date for the arrival of the Gospel in Tolikara as a religious holiday and a regional public holiday.
“This date will strengthen the sense of identity and pride among believers, especially members of the Evangelical Church in Indonesia (GIDI), and will serve as a momentum to foster solidarity,” he stated.
In addition, he mentioned that they will host an annual cultural festival, such as the Lani Tribe Cultural Festival, which will serve as an important moment to introduce the cultural richness of the Lani Tribe to the wider public and visiting tourists.
“This festival will showcase various traditional art performances, customary ceremonies, and joint thanksgiving services involving neighboring regencies such as Puncak Jaya, Puncak, Lanny Jaya, and Mamberamo Tengah,” he added.
He further emphasized that through these celebrations, it is hoped that cultural and spiritual synergy will be created to strengthen the regional identity while also boosting the local economy based on culture and faith.
