Ambon, Maluku, Oct. 13 -- Wearing neatly wrapped batik sarongs around their waists and carrying baskets of food and herbs atop their heads, these women walk through village paths and city streets.

They are known as papalele - a symbol of economic independence and resilience among Maluku women - now officially recognized as Indonesia's Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture.

In Ambon City, papalele are a familiar sight in the early morning. These women sell fresh fish, vegetables, garden produce, and traditional cakes. On foot or by public transport, they connect rural producers with urban buyers.

The papalele tradition goes beyond trade. It reflects the social and cultural structure of Maluku society, preserved for cen...