Mechesil Belau calls on women to safeguard Palau’s cultural traditions

By: L. N. Reklai KOROR, Palau — Palauan women, as keepers of the nation’s cultural traditions in a matrilineal society, have a responsibility to ensure that traditional customs are practiced correctly and passed on to future generations, participants at the 33rd annual Mechesil Belau Conference said. During a panel discussion on traditional leadership, cultural values and women’s roles, Bilung Gloria Salii of Koror said women play a central role in preserving Palauan culture and ensuring that traditional practices remain rooted in established customs. Bilung Gloria Salii, chief matriarch of Koror, speaking on traditional roles of women. The discussion also acknowledged that women themselves can contribute to changes in cultural practices that may depart from tradition or place additional financial pressure on families.

The annual conference, which has been held for more than 30 years, brought together women from different states to discuss cultural practices and issues affecting Palauan families. Panelists discussed traditions surrounding funerals, or kemeldiil ; the settling of wills, or cheldecheduch ; the appointment of chiefs; first-birth ceremonies, or omengat ; Palauan money; and the different responsibilities of men and women in each practice. Women shared perspectives based on the customs of their respective states and families. Some practices were identified as inconsistent with traditional cultural norms. Panelists during the topic on traditional roles and responsibilities during the 33rd Mechesil Belau Conference on September 30, 2026. Island Times One example discussed was the participation of men in an omengat , a ceremony marking the birth of a first child. Participants also questioned the practice of giving Palauan money for a baby during the…