The Role of the Sebyar Tribal Head in Preserving Local Wisdom: Customary Law in Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua Province

The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze the role of the Sebyar Tribal Chief in preserving local wisdom in Tomu Village, Tomu District, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua Province, as well as to identify and analyze the supporting and inhibiting factors for the Sebyar Tribal Chief in carrying out his role in Tomu Village, Tomu District, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua Province. The type of research used is qualitative. The focus of this research is the role of the tribal chief in local wisdom, viewed from the following aspects: as a policy maker, as a strategist, as a communication tool, as a dispute resolver, as a therapist, and the supporting and inhibiting factors for the Sebyar tribal chief in carrying out his role in Tomu Village, Tomu District, Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua Province, viewed from internal and external factors. The number of informants in this study was 10 people. Data collection techniques were conducted through observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis techniques included data collection, data condensation, and data validity. The study results indicate that internally, leadership strength, support from the indigenous community, and collective awareness are the main supporting factors. At the same time, infrastructure limitations, generational differences, and a lack of administrative and communication training are the main obstacles. From an external perspective, support from the local government and NGOs and global awareness of indigenous peoples' rights encourage the role of the tribal chief. However, inconsistent policies, lack of response from companies, and stigma against indigenous peoples pose challenges. Overall, these findings indicate that the success of implementing the role of the Sebyar Tribal Chief depends heavily on the synergy between the internal strengths of the indigenous community and consistent external support, as stipulated in the Teluk Bintuni Regency Regulation No. 1 of 2019.