Asaro mudmen unhappy with copycats

The original custodians of the world famous Asaro Mudman have expressed frustration that “copycats” were abusing their cultural heritage around the country and even on the world stage.

They expressed their frustrations in Komunive Village in the Asaro Valley of Eastern Highlands, in the presence of Tourism Arts and Culture Minister, Emil Tammur, Tourism Promotion Authority CEO, Jerry Agus and Eastern Highlands Deputy Governor Eastern Highlands, John Mipo.

Leaders of Komunive Village in the Asaro Valley of Eastern Highlands, where the legend of the mud man came alive many centuries ago, are now calling on the National Government and the relevant State authorities to register the mudman brand as their very own, so “fakes and con artists” don’t abuse their registered trademark for commercial gain.

Malepo said the people of Komunive want Parliament to enact relevant laws to protect their cultural heritage so tourists and other international visitors can visit their village to learn about the history and also watch live performances by the famed Asaro Mudman.

Minister Tammur said he would support their move by directing relevant agencies under his Ministry including the National Cultural Commission and the National Museum and Art Gallery to put together proper policy submissions for consideration by Parliament.

TPA CEO Jerry Angus said TPA would support the move by the minister to protect the copyright of unique traditional cultures such as the Asaro Mudman.

Meantime TPA has invested about K100,000 in the last 12 years culminating, with the fully completed Asaro Mudman Cultural Centre which the local people will utilize to promote tourism in the area.

Author: 
Press Release