Under the theme “Discover – Traditional Perspectives,” the conference featured presentations by traditional leaders from Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshalls Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands, with each presentation followed by a moderated discussion.  

Through the moderated panel discussions, the MPA students aimed to explore a deeper understanding of indigenous wisdom and traditional perspectives and to ultimately find potential partnerships and collaborative projects between the islands and the MPA program.

“Not only did the presence and participation of traditional leaders provide immense value to future planning, but it opened a perspective that directly impacts the influence and importance of culture in decision making,” said MPA candidate Adam Suharto, chairperson of the conference.

Throughout the discussions, the traditional leaders all said the practice of the native language and traditions seems to be fading and is a central issue in the local communities. Recommendations shared to mitigate the issue included the creation of books focused on myths, legends, and traditional ways; incorporating language and culture into school curriculums; and expanding outreach globally using technology.

“This was just one of many highlights from the conversations,” Suharto said.

The MPA program has hosted the Western Pacific Conference every two years since 2015, focusing on the topics of public policy and solutions, improving services for local veterans, decolonization and self-determination, and this year, traditional perspectives. 

Also partnering in the conference were the UOG Pacific Islands Small Business Development Center Network, the UOG Center for Island Sustainability, the Guam Green Growth initiative, Guam EPSCoR-GECCO, Guampedia, and the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office in Guam.