Matbat's Animism
The Matbat people are an ethnic group in Southwest Papua, Indonesia. The Samson ritual takes place once a year, lasting six to seven months. The traditional chief/king then expresses gratitude for protection during the Samson period, thanks for the fertility it provides, and prays for the protection of local residents while harvesting seafood. This ritual involves chanting mantras to the guardians, inhabitants of the sea, and deceased ancestors. On the second day, the community can sail longer distances. On the third day and beyond, they can sail even further. This dance is a traditional dance of the Misool civilization, passed down through generations.