The Micronesian Voyaging Society (MVS) and the Taitung Hunter School Education Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today (March 20) at the Just Arts House to promote bilateral indigenous exchange and cooperation. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Vice President Raynold “Arnold” Oilouch of Palau, Deputy Minister Adralriw Abaliusu of the Council of Indigenous Peoples (CIP), and Taitung County Magistrate Yao Ching-ling.

The traditional Palauan voyaging canoe, the Alingano Maisu, a non-motorized sailing vessel, relies entirely on ancestral navigation knowledge passed down through generations, without the use of modern instruments or engines. Its current voyage spans approximately four months and 6,200 nautical miles, crossing the western Pacific. Departing from Palau on February 15, the vessel made its first international stop in Kaohsiung on March 1, and has since called at Taitung, Hualien, and other locations. Through voyaging knowledge sharing, community exchanges, and educational outreach activities, the crew has engaged with local governments, organizations, and indigenous communities, helping the public gain a deeper understanding of Austronesian seafaring traditions and the cultural connections between Pacific Island societies.

Deputy Minister Adralriw Abaliusu noted that Palau is one of Taiwan’s key diplomatic allies, and expressed honor in witnessing the MOU between MVS and the Hunter School, which marks the beginning of expanded bilateral indigenous cultural cooperation. He further emphasized that indigenous culture serves as a bridge in connecting Taiwan with the world, and that the CIP will continue to support maritime cultural exchanges between Taiwan and Pacific Island nations. Such efforts aim to strengthen cooperation in education, cultural exchange, and youth engagement, ensuring the continued transmission of traditional voyaging knowledge across generations.

The Alingano Maisu is one of the most significant traditional double-hulled voyaging canoes in the Pacific region. This voyage not only demonstrates traditional navigation knowledge and skills, but also symbolizes enduring connections across the ocean. The full journey is expected to pass through Palau, Taiwan, Okinawa (Japan), Guam, Saipan, Satawal, and Yap, before ultimately returning to Palau.