Overview:
A new era of traditional leadership has begun in Aimeliik State. Antonio Ngirturong was installed Sunday as Rengulbai, taking his rightful seat in the Ngarkeai council of chiefs through a solemn Omelobech ceremony steeped in centuries of Palauan custom.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
AIMELIIK, Palau — Antonio Ngirturong was installed Sunday as the new Rengulbai of Aimeliik, taking his seat in the Ngarkeai, the traditional council of chiefs of Aimeliik State.
Ngirturong, younger brother of the late Rengulbai Kalistus Ngirturong, was formally installed through a traditional Omelobech ceremony held at Bai-Rekeai in Ngerkeai, Aimeliik.
The ceremony was held in conjunction with a Mur, a traditional feast, during which the Klobak of Rengarkeai accepted Ngirturong’s appointment and officially recognized him as their Sechelirir.
“We are looking forward to working with Rengulbai Antonio, and we hope to see Ngarkeai come together,” said Chief Ngiraicherei Dwight Masami, one of 11 chiefs under the Ngarkeai council.
Rengulbai Ngirturong hails from the Uchelkeiukl clan of Aimeliik State. According to the Milad creation legend, Aimeliik is one of four sibling states alongside Ngeremlengui, Melekeok and Koror.
The installation was marked by food, drinks and donations of cash and traditional Palauan money by the Ourrot, in accordance with Palauan custom.
Under the Palau Constitution, the Rengulbai serves as Aimeliik State’s representative in the Rubekul Belau, the Palau Council of Chiefs.
