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The Kei Islands, located in Southeast Maluku, are a hidden paradise for tourists seeking pristine beaches and unique cultural experiences. One of the must-visit destinations in this area is Kei Kecil, which is home to the annual Meti Kei Enchantment Festival. This festival, organized by the Southeast Maluku Regency Government, showcases local traditions and customs, including the van kur kurat event, where participants use traditional arrows to catch fish during low tide.
The van kur kurat tradition is a local wisdom that involves shooting fish using traditional arrows when low tide is approaching. The festival is part of the Kharisma Event Nusantara (KEN) calendar, a Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy program aimed at improving the quality of event implementation in the regions.
Meti Kei Enchantment Festival
Source: indonesia.travel
Besides the van kur kurat event, the festival also features cultural carnivals, seminars on Kei customs and culture, buka sasi, bameti bersama, wer warat, meti Kei rocking competition, canoe rowing competition, and art performances. The festival is held during the meti or low tide condition in October, which allows visitors to explore the marine life and even walk between two separate islands.
To reach Kei Kecil, tourists can take an hour-long flight from Ambon to Karel Satsuitubun Ibra Airport in Langgur. Alternatively, they can travel by ship with a 21-hour journey from Ambon Harbor to Tual Harbor. The Kei Islands are known for their white sand beaches, clear water, and tosca green sea, with famous beaches such as Ohoidertawun Beach and Ngurbloat Beach.
The Meti Kei Enchantment Festival is just one of the many reasons to visit the Kei Islands. With their natural beauty and unique cultural experiences, these islands offer a hidden paradise for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation.
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