No one seems to know exactly where the boundary line lies as far as appropriate governance and responsible stewardship and management of resources is of concern.Everyone, it seems, has opted to side with whoever has the better argument – if there ever is one.
Recently, there has been some talk about the traditional moratoriums established in Aimeliik State and Ngarchelong State.Both of the moratoriums were established through decisions made by the traditional leaders of the respective states, which essentially are attempts to put a halt on indiscriminate activities – inclusive of unsustainable fishery and irreverent practices.I am certain that moratoriums were not established to discriminate against any particular group of people, but rather to protect the interests of the people of each state.I think there should be no argument as to why the moratoriums were established.
Yet, I find it funny that so many do not understand traditional moratoriums.Some have attempted to define and explain traditional moratoriums using modern legal tenets, which have driven tongues to wiggle illogically.
A traditional moratorium – “Bul” – is implemented when the traditional leadership of a village or a state sense that something “stinks” within the boundaries of the area they govern and hence, a “refraining order” must be put in place until such time the cause of the stink is figured out.A “Bul” can cover a whole range of things- from something as simple as the harvesting of betel-nuts to implementation of a state-wide curfew.
I have lived long enough and have experienced a few “Buls.”I remember not being able to harvest betel-nuts on a privately owned property in Elab, Ngaraard.I remember living through a curfew established by the traditional leaders of Koror State.I abided by the “Buls” as did so many others and we are still here.
I am an advocate for traditional practices.I have to belong somewhere – be it a village, a state, or country.As far as I am concerned, everyone should belong somewhere and believe in something.I take my stand with the traditional leaders, not because they are old, but because they represent me, and most of the time, they make sense.
I wish for the traditional leaders of Aimeliik and Ngarchelong states – and any other state for that matter – to live up to that which they were destined to do.I hope that they stand firm to their beliefs and uphold the traditions that have served us well.
There are distinct boundary lines that separate the traditional leaders from elected leaders.It is the modern legal tenets that have been manipulated to blur the lines.If one looks closely, the lines would visible.
If you are not from Aimeliik or Ngarchelong, do not fret – it is just the way it is.If you need to go fishing in any these states, simply ask permission to do so.If your request is denied, go fish somewhere else.If you really need fish to supplement your diet, stop by Beluak Fish Market in Ngaraard – you would surely save without the hassle.If nothing else, let’s eat thunder- at the very least, we just might crap lightning and shed some light on this issue.
