That night we had the honor of attending the Toana Ceremony at the Amantubillah Palace. The walls were covered in portraits and vibrant colors, just like the clothing of the people in the room.
The Toana ceremony was a celebration where new titles were handed out to pass on the duties and their royal relatives. At the beginning before the ceremony started, The introductions were made in each tribe’s local language. It was amazing to see all these different tribes in one room, each with different clothes and customs all working together.
Our third and final day in Mempawah, Wednesday, August 20, began in very early, before the sun had risen everyone gathered outside for the morning ceremony (Saprahan) with Ibu Erlina, Regent of Mempawah. All the males sat on one side, and the females on the other. In between was vegetables, various meats, ketupat and Patlau. The feeling of community that I felt being surrounded by everyone sharing food was incredible. I am so grateful I got the opportunity to come and experience Mempawah during Robo Robo. It will be an experience I will never forget.(Sela Ramona: Exchange Student form USA)
